Minister Warns Landlords against Excessive Rent, Directs Investigation Lands Minister Judith Nabakooba has condemned the practice of landlords demanding exorbitant fees from tenants, known as “Ekanzu,” in Gomba district. Following complaints from residents during Heroes’ Day celebrations, Nabakooba ordered the State House Anti-Corruption Unit to investigate the matter. Collection of ‘Ekanzu’ Tenants in Gomba have been charged “Ekanzu” before making any alterations to their property. One landlord, John Muhwezi, has reportedly collected “Ekanzu” for three years, demanding Sh100,000 for one acre and Sh1 million for ten acres. President’s Intervention Residents raised their concerns with President Museveni, prompting him to order the immediate cessation of “Ekanzu” collection. Nabakooba subsequently enforced this directive. Enforcement Actions Muhwezi was detained by the anti-corruption team for collecting “Ekanzu.” Nabakooba instructed tenants to pay “Busuulu,” the nominal rent established by law, and ordered the return of “Ekanzu” payments. Additional Cases During a community meeting, Nabakooba received reports of various land-related offenses, including conspiracy to defraud and false pretense. The Minister directed the Gomba Criminal Investigation Directorate and Anti-Corruption Unit to investigate these allegations. Evictions Nabakooba ordered the reinstatement of those who had been evicted from their land. She gave the relevant authorities one week to respond. Tenant Concerns Residents shared their experiences with excessive “Ekanzu” payments. One tenant with half an acre was asked to pay Sh50,000, while another with a small plot was charged Sh80,000. Some tenants expressed concerns about receiving receipts for their payments. Related News The article refers to related news articles, but the specific content of these articles is not included in the provided text.Police have put landlords in Kampala on notice, warning them that soliciting money from prospective tenants in exchange for rental units is against the law. Prospective tenants are being charged facilitation fees ranging from Shs100,000 to Shs500,000, even for units that cost Shs150,000 per month. The force’s spokesperson, SCP Fred Enanga, said a number of complaints from the public had reached his office, warning that landlords who continue to solicit bribes will be prosecuted. “This is a very serious allegation, and we are treating it with the utmost seriousness. We have already launched an investigation into these matters, and we will not hesitate to take action against anyone who is found to be breaking the law,” Enanga said. The police spokesperson directed the director of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit to investigate the matter and take appropriate action.