A bitter family feud has unfolded in Entebbe Municipality as former Entebbe Municipal Council Assistant Engineer, Johnnie Yebaza, and his wife of three decades, Harriet Semasaazi Ayebaza, lock horns over ownership of the Livani Beach property in Manyago Zone. The dispute, now the subject of heated exchanges, highlights the growing trend of domestic conflicts spilling into business and property battles in Uganda.
How the Dispute Began
According to sources, the conflict was triggered when Harriet allegedly sold part of the land housing Livani Beach to a Chinese investor, Chen Lianren, without the full consent of her husband. This transaction has reportedly fueled mistrust between the once-loving couple, turning their marriage into a battleground of accusations and resentment.
Engineer Yebaza, who once served in Entebbe Municipal Council, had informed his wife that he planned to sell their marital home located in Nsamizi Zone. He allegedly suggested that they relocate to the village. Harriet opposed this decision and instead moved to Manyago Zone, taking up residence in a house that is part of the Livani Beach Motel.
Livani Beach at the Center of the Storm
Livani Beach, located in Entebbe’s Manyago area, has long been considered a prime leisure and investment spot. Its scenic views and proximity to Entebbe town make it attractive for investors, including foreign nationals. The alleged sale of part of the property to Chinese investor Chen Lianren underscores the growing interest of foreign businesspeople in Uganda’s lakeside assets.
The property dispute has not only put the couple’s marriage under strain but has also raised concerns about the future of Livani Beach and its management. Residents and local stakeholders are reportedly following the developments closely, given the property’s contribution to tourism and entertainment in the municipality.
Family Fallout and Community Reactions
What was once a stable union spanning over 30 years has now degenerated into open hostility. Friends and community members close to the couple describe the standoff as tragic, given the family’s respected status in Entebbe.
Legal experts note that disputes over marital property in Uganda are not uncommon, especially when large investments or commercial ventures are involved. In this case, the lack of a clear joint agreement before the alleged sale could become a focal point if the matter escalates into a legal battle.
Broader Implications
The case of Yebaza and Semasaazi highlights a broader issue of property rights and marital conflicts in Uganda. With rising land values and growing foreign investment in areas like Entebbe, Manyago, and Nsamizi, more families are finding themselves at odds over ownership, inheritance, and sales of prime assets.
Observers warn that such conflicts not only destabilize families but can also discourage investment when properties become mired in legal battles or prolonged disputes.
Conclusion
As the fight over Livani Beach continues, questions linger about who will ultimately gain control of the property. Will it remain in the hands of the family, pass on to foreign investors, or become the subject of a prolonged court battle? For now, one thing is clear: what began as a marriage three decades ago has now transformed into a bitter struggle over one of Entebbe’s prized properties.
