The Presidential Taskforce on Land Matters and Environment, led by Brigadier Moses Lukyamuzi, does not possess the authority to conduct investigations or detain suspects accused of land-related crimes, according to a statement from the Presidential Press Unit. The task force, operating under the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, has a specific mandate focused on preventing encroachments on wetlands, forests, and riverbanks.
Brig. Lukyamuzi, serving as a Special Presidential Assistant, oversees the task force’s efforts to swiftly respond to cases of land grabbing and ensures the transfer of suspects to either the police or the military police for further handling. However, the statement clarifies that the task force is not authorized to undertake investigations, detain individuals, or prosecute suspects.
The role of the task force remains limited to preventive measures and collaboration with law enforcement agencies for the resolution of land-related issues. The statement did not explicitly address whether there have been specific complaints or concerns about the task force’s handling of its responsibilities.
Historically, various task forces established by the President have encountered challenges related to their scope of authority and potential overlap with existing government institutions. Instances of clashes have occurred, such as the State House Anticorruption task force conflicting with the Office of the Inspector General of Government. The latter accused the task force of attempting to assume its mandate in the fight against corruption.
This statement serves as a clarification regarding the jurisdiction and functions of the Presidential Taskforce on Land Matters and Environment, reinforcing the delineation of powers between the task force and other law enforcement entities.
