By Dean Lubowa Saava
The case of Jordan Ssebuliba, the adopted son of businessman Mohan Kiwanuka, has brought to light the complexities of family dynamics and inheritance laws in Uganda. The case has sparked a bitter family feud, raising questions about greed, loyalty, and the importance of respecting one’s heritage.
Ssebuliba’s actions, as reported, seem to be driven by a desire to gain control of his father’s properties and companies. His application to be appointed as his father’s heir, despite Kiwanuka being alive and healthy, has been met with resistance from his family. The court has dismissed Ssebuliba’s request for a mental test to prove his father’s alleged dementia, citing it as defamatory and absurd.
This isn’t the first time Ssebuliba has clashed with his father over property. Earlier, in March 2012, a court-ordered eviction under EXD MA 1239/2019 resulted in the removal of Ssebuliba and Lower hill Management after an 18-month legal battle.
This eviction highlights the long-standing nature of the dispute between Ssebuliba and his father. Ssebuliba has filed numerous cases against his father, including
HCCS No. 555/2019: Ssebuliba and Lower hill Management sued Visa Investment Ltd and Kiwanuka, claiming an equitable interest in company properties. The case was ultimately dismissed.
HCCS No. 249/2019 Ssebuliba sued Kiwanuka, seeking to take over his estate on grounds of alleged insanity. The court dismissed the application.
HCCS No. 253/2019: Ssebuliba, his biological mother Beatrice Luyiga Kavuma, and Lower hill Management brought a case against Kiwanuka, asserting that company properties were actually marital property. The case was lost.
Originating Summons No. 4/2021: Victor Nuwagaba, backed by an affidavit from Ssebuliba, filed a fraudulent purchase claim on company property against Kiwanuka and Visa Investments Ltd. The court dismissed the case on grounds of a fraudulent contract.
Cases supported by Ssebuliba’s mother: Beatrice Luyiga Kavuma filed a marital claim (Civil Suit No. 182/2021) against Kiwanis Summit Limited and the Registrar of Titles over company property. Although the suit was dismissed, it was marked to be rescheduled.
Recent case: Ssebuliba was involved in a breach of contract case (File No. MU3) and was released on bond on March 18, 2024.
In addition to these cases, Visa Investment Ltd filed a contempt of court application (Misc. Application No. 471/2021) against Jordan Ssebuliba. The court ruled in favor of Visa Investments and awarded Shs100 million in damages for financial loss.
The repeated attempts by Ssebuliba to gain control of his father’s estate have raised concerns about the potential exploitation of elderly parents by their children. Kiwanuka’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of clear estate planning and the need for families to prioritize love and respect over material gain.
The outcome of this case will likely have significant implications for Ssebuliba and his family. It may also set a precedent for similar cases in Uganda, emphasizing the importance of respecting one’s heritage and prioritizing family harmony over personal gain.
Ultimately, the Ssebuliba case serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the importance of family values. As the legal proceedings continue, it remains to be seen how this complex family feud will be resolved.
