Whenever authorities dismantle illegal structures or clear unlawful land use, public backlash often follows, frequently framed as racial discrimination or inhumane treatment. What is less discussed is that many of these structures or agricultural activities were knowingly established on land without legal rights, sometimes with the expectation that compensation would be paid when enforcement eventually occurs.
There are genuine cases where individuals or businesses hold lawful ownership or valid approvals, and the courts have rightly ruled in their favour. However, there are also numerous cases involving encroachment, unauthorised plantations, or land claims made without documentation. Under the National Land Code 1965 (Act 56), occupation or use of land without title or consent of the State Authority is an offence, regardless of how long the land has been occupied.
When enforcement takes place often pursuant to a court order, blame is frequently directed at MPs, ADUNs, or the government of the day. In reality, responsibility is rarely one-sided. Authorities may have delayed enforcement or failed in oversight, affected parties may have taken calculated risks, and in some cases corruption or abuse of power may be involved, which must be addressed under the MACC Act 2009 (Act 694).
What is important to understand is that court decisions are made based on evidence, documentation, and statutory law not sentiment. Reframing every enforcement action as “injustice” after a ruling is issued weakens respect for the rule of law.
I do not take sides based on emotion. I assess facts, legal frameworks, and court findings. Some may disagree, but a society governed by laws must be willing to accept outcomes grounded in legality even when they are uncomfortable.
The real discussion should focus on early governance, transparent enforcement, accountability on all sides, and protecting genuine rights without normalising illegality or politicising lawful action.
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