By Hon. Dr. Odonga Otto
The time for diplomacy has ended. The time for action is now! The Acholi people have been patient, too patient, while their land, livelihoods, and dignity have been trampled upon by the Balalo (nomadic cattle herders) with the backing of state machinery. This is no longer just a local issue—it is a national crisis, and if not addressed, we will make it an election issue. President Museveni, take note: Acholi votes are on the line!
What Happened to the Executive Order on Balalo?
The President issued a directive: Balalo must leave Northern Uganda. Yet, in Rachkoko alone, two trucks full of cattle were offloaded last night—bringing the total to four just this week. How is this happening under an executive order? Is there state capture at play? Are some individuals within government ignoring the President’s orders for their own benefit?
Acholi Farmers Under Siege
I was in Ongany, Kilak, and I have seen firsthand how the Acholi people are suffering. On March 1st, the community has vowed to confront the Balalo because their cattle are destroying cassava, sorghum, and other crops—our only means of survival. Let it be clear: we are farmers. We depend on our land. The Balalo must respect our way of life!
Why is the Presidential Directive on Fencing Land Being Ignored?
Yesterday in Koyo Lalogi, 360 acres of land were reportedly "sold" to Balalo. But Acholi customary land is not for sale! How are government agencies allowing this to happen? Who is enabling these transactions? We demand answers! The Balalo are manipulating our people, using state resources to grab land that does not belong to them. This is how conflicts start. We will not allow history to repeat itself.
Are Balalo Special Beings in Uganda?
When Acholi farmers impound cattle that have destroyed their crops, they are arrested by the police—who take orders from the same Balalo. Are we second-class citizens in our own land? Why does the law work for some but not for others? If the government cannot protect our people, we will take matters into our own hands.
We remember the injustice when Kanyamunyu and Desh walked free after killing Ugandans, while Godi Akbar rots in prison. Is this the same fate awaiting Acholi farmers? Are we to accept that Uganda has laws for some and lawlessness for others?
A Political Warning: Leaders Must Speak Up or Step Aside
Any leader who does not take a public stance on this matter must not be voted into office. Silence is complicity. If this issue is not addressed, the Acholi people will decide at the ballot box. We do not want another civil war, but we will not be forced into submission.
Balalo Must Go! Our Land Must Be Respected! Enough is Enough!