Local leaders in Kasese District have vowed to defend their area from falling into the hands of wrong elements intent on plunging it back into conflict. The leaders say the previous unrest cost lives and stalled development, and it would be unfortunate for anyone to attempt to destabilize the region now that peace and stability have been restored.
The remarks follow Saturday’s attacks by armed groups on Kasese Central Police Station and Rugendabara Police Post, which left 19 people dead and 40 suspects arrested, many reportedly from Busongora North Constituency. Similar attacks were also reported in Bundibugyo and Fort Portal.
Godfrey Kabyanga, the State Minister for ICT and National Guidance and former Kasese Municipality Mayor, said leaders will not allow Kasese to once again become a war zone at a time when it is emerging as a tourism and business hub for the region. He urged security agencies to track the financiers of the armed groups to unearth their origin and motives.
Kabyanga also appealed to those planning attacks to surrender.
Eliphazi Muhindi, the District LCV Chairperson, said the attacks are a reminder that some individuals remain determined to destabilize the region. He commended the Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu (OBR) for distancing itself from the attackers, following social media claims linking the suspects to the cultural institution. The Kingdom dismissed the allegations as false.
Busongora North MP Sowedi Kitanywa said leaders cannot allow their people to die at the hands of wrong elements. He applauded security forces for their swift response in containing the situation before it escalated. Hilda Mate Bukombi, the Hima Town Council LCIII Chairperson, called on local leaders to work closely with security agencies to improve coordination during emergencies.
She said leaders have a responsibility to guide communities on peaceful coexistence and encourage them to address grievances through lawful means. Kasese RDC Lt. Joe Walusimbi urged residents with grievances against the system to use appropriate channels to express them. He cautioned individuals luring young people into rebellious activities to desist.
Kasese has in previous years been embroiled in conflicts linked to ethnic tensions, election disputes, and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) insurgency. In 2016, the UPDF raided the Rwenzururu Palace, an operation that led to the arrest of King Charles Wesley Mumbere and the death of more than 100 people, mainly royal guards.
***URN***