President’s Directive Sparks Tensions As Balaalo Herders Face Forceful Exit Amidst Rising Opposition, Unfolding Violence

Balaalo herders are under pressure to exit the greater northern Uganda region, compelled by a presidential order despite facing resistance from local communities. In Okidi Parish, Amuru District, security operations spearheaded by the Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Stephen Odong Latek, were carried out to enforce the evacuation. This move aligns with President Museveni’s recent visit, where herders with open land and no water sources were instructed to vacate.

During the operation, some herders sought a one-week grace period to complete fencing their land, but Mr. Latek insisted that only the President could extend such privileges. Despite the initially peaceful eviction process, incidents of violence and vandalism against the Balaalo unfolded in Amuru and Gulu districts.

At least 15 individuals suspected of causing trouble were apprehended by the army and handed over to the police. These suspects, taken from Lugore Village in Gulu District and Amuru, are facing charges of criminal trespass, theft, and malicious damage. By the following day, over 1,400 cattle owned by the herders were gathered at Okidi Holding Ground in Amuru District.

State Minister for Northern Uganda, Ms. Grace Freedom Kwiyucwiny, instructed Regional District Commissioners (RDCs) in West Nile, Acholi, and Lango sub-regions to oversee the eviction process. The RDCs’ responsibilities included identifying and evaluating Balaalo, maintaining law and order, and facilitating the exit of cattle through specified routes.

Exit routes for cattle from various districts were outlined in the directive, with Minister of the Presidency, Ms. Milly Babalanda, emphasizing the need for strict implementation. The Director of Public Prosecutions, Ms. Jane Frances Abodo, directed prosecutors to support the eviction, setting a grace period deadline for November 25.

The directive, initiated after President Museveni’s visit to Okidi Village on November 3, targets Balaalo with open land and no water sources. Eviction efforts continue, extending to government ranches and lands in different districts. The RDC of Apac warned of forceful eviction for those defying the order.

Plans for Balaalo eviction were also in progress in Kwania, with security meetings organized in districts like Otuke and Arua City. The directive aims to address concerns about Balaalo encroaching on farmlands, damaging crops, and allegedly possessing illicit weapons. However, some residents express doubts about the temporary directive’s effectiveness, suggesting that it might be relaxed after a brief period. The chairman of the land board for Arua City raised concerns about Balaalos exploiting the post-conflict peace in Northern Uganda.