PM's tough stance

People, particularly those that are the victims of such illegal acts, will look at this directive with a great deal of hope. The instructions from the highest executive must, therefore, be implemented promptly and efficiently so as not to disappoint them. We are all too aware of the many well-intentioned directives having been issued for public benefit that eventually ended up largely unimplemented. Much of the blame for this must be laid at the doorstep of those entrusted to execute the orders. Land matters are such that lend itself easily to many complications and litigations. And, if one does not approach the matter with all the necessary institutional preparation, there is bound to be difficulties in resolving the issue.

There is no denying that all manner of deceit and fraud are undertaken to make these illegal possession appear valid. Use of political muscle and the existence of a collusive arrangement between corrupt government officials and unscrupulous elements cannot be ruled out either. Regrettable as it is, it is also a fact that this phenomenon cuts across governments and party lines.

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Setting up of special bodies at the national and district level is indeed appropriate, but one wonders whether they can function effectively unless vested with appropriate legal authority to address the juridical issues that are likely crop up.

A laudable step as this is, it must be carried to its logical conclusion. Failure to do so might result not only in compounding the problem further but also validating by default acts of the unlawful land grabbers.