The High Court in Arua has adjourned a land case involving Justice Rosette Comfort Kania, a High Court Judge, following the death of businessman Augustine Asea, who sold the disputed land to her.
Asea passed away three weeks ago under unclear circumstances.
Justice Kania claims she was denied full ownership of the land she purchased from Asea in 2018 in Biacici village, Madi Okollo District.
The 413-acre land was initially community land, but Asea acquired a title for it and sold it to Justice Kania.
However, residents protested, alleging that Asea had fraudulently acquired the title and that the land included community roads and water sources.
Justice Kania paid over 100 million Shillings for the land and had the title transferred to her name.
However, when she visited the land, she was denied access by residents who claimed they were unaware of the transaction.
Justice Kania subsequently filed a case of theft by trick and fraud against Asea.
The case was adjourned on Thursday after Asea’s death was brought to the court’s attention.
Lawyers for both parties are exploring an out-of-court settlement.
The case will be heard again on July 8th, when the court will consider the lawyers’ request.
The death of Asea has complicated the case, and the adjournment has given the parties an opportunity to explore alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
The outcome of the case will have implications for Justice Kania and the residents of Biacici village, who are fighting to protect their community land.
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