Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential candidate Nathan Nandala Mafabi has pledged to compensate the Arrow Boys who fought against the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in Teso and to reimburse residents for cattle and property lost during insurgencies between 1986 and 2003. The conflicts left many people displaced, property destroyed, and lives lost.
While campaigning in Kapelebyong and Amuria districts, Nandala said President Museveni’s cattle restocking program was a reaction to pressure from the FDC’s “No Cow, No Vote” initiative, which seeks justice for the long-standing grievances of the Teso community. He urged residents to trust the FDC with their votes, noting that the party’s manifesto includes concrete plans for compensation. Nandala accused President Museveni of lacking genuine commitment, describing his recent initiatives as “politically motivated rather than sincere efforts to address the people’s needs.”
“Cattle compensation should have been the first priority if the FDC were in power. This government has systematically failed to address the challenges of the people of Teso,” Nandala said. Nandala also called for unity among the Iteso people, saying the FDC offers a clear path to restoring their livelihoods. He promised that under his leadership, those who lost cattle and property would be fully compensated.
In addition to compensation, Nandala pledged to revive agriculture—particularly cotton farming—which he said still has a viable market. He argued that poor farming practices and lack of government support have hindered Teso’s agricultural potential.
He further criticized corruption in government, claiming that large amounts of public funds are mismanaged by officials. Nandala proposed reducing the tax rate from 30% to 10% to ease the burden on citizens, arguing that taxpayers receive little in return for their contributions.
Nandala’s message has resonated strongly with residents of Teso, many of whom have long awaited meaningful compensation after years of unfulfilled promises. The community’s frustration led them to sue the government in 2005, prompting President Museveni to launch a cattle compensation initiative in March 2022. However, the results have been widely described as disappointing.
In response to renewed demands, Museveni initiated a cattle restocking program and appointed a ten-member committee led by Vice President Jessica Alupo to oversee consultations with various stakeholders. Despite these efforts, skepticism remains high among residents who say they are still waiting for tangible outcomes. As elections draw closer, Nandala continues to rally support around his pledge to restore the dignity and livelihoods of the people of Teso, positioning the FDC as the party that can deliver genuine change.
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