By REUBEN OLITA
April 22, 2026| Residents of Onyunyur in Malaba South Ward have raised alarm over the alleged demolition of their fences by a road contractor, sparking tension between the community and local leadership.
The affected residents claim that unknown individuals, believed to be working on the Ochori-Kopili–Flyover–Roiko Road project, brought down chain-link fences and uprooted posts separating their farms from the road corridor.
They say they woke up to widespread destruction, leaving their maize crops exposed to theft and stray animals — raising fears of heavy losses and possible food insecurity.
Residents, who spoke on condition of anonymity, insist their farms do not lie on the designated road reserve. They fault both the contractor and area leaders for failing to engage them before carrying out the demolitions.
“We are working hard to contribute to food security, but some actions are undermining our efforts. The county government must come clear on these demolitions,” one resident said.
They further decried the financial burden of replacing the destroyed fencing materials.
“The losses are huge. We now have to buy new posts and chain-link and also pay for labour. Who will compensate us?” they posed.
The road project, which connects Teso North and Teso South sub-counties, cuts across Malaba Central, Malaba South, and Amukura East wards, and is seen as key to boosting the local economy.
However, Malaba South MCA Bonface Ekada Mamai has dismissed the residents’ claims, maintaining that the demolitions were justified.
According to the MCA, several residents had encroached on the road reserve by erecting fences within restricted zones.
“The allegations of malicious damage do not hold. Some residents have put up fences on road reserves — even in front of electricity posts — which clearly shows non-compliance,” the MCA said.
He emphasized that the road must meet national standards, particularly in drainage design.
“Drainage is my main concern. We must open up proper drainage systems and maintain a six-metre road reserve, plus one metre on each side for drainage. Residents must comply to avoid future regret,” he added.
Despite the explanation, tensions remain high, with affected residents now threatening to take legal action against the contractor.