President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni recently engaged in discussions with Acholi sub-region leaders, including Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, to address the matter of Balaalo land ownership. The meeting, held at State House Entebbe, aimed to tackle a range of issues concerning the implementation of Presidential Executive Order No. 3.
During the meeting, Acholi leaders raised concerns about crimes committed by certain Balaalo individuals, such as land theft and destruction of crops, often using the names of high-ranking government officials. President Museveni acknowledged these challenges and reassured the leaders that corrective action would be taken to address the situation.
“What you are talking about is very easy. You give me factual examples of the crimes being committed so that I have where to move in,” President Museveni noted
On May 19, 2023, President Museveni signed an Executive Order with the intention of curbing unruly behavior exhibited by Balaalo herdsmen during his regional visit. The order prohibited Balaalo from entering Northern Uganda, and they were initially expected to depart the region by the end of June. However, the deadline was extended to September 30th.
The meeting was also attended by ministers including Hon. Hilary Onek (Minister of Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees), Hon. Henry Okello Oryem (Minister of State for Foreign Affairs – International Affairs), and the Minister of State for Economic Monitoring, among others.
President Museveni’s engagement with Acholi leaders reflects his administration’s dedication to resolving the Balaalo land ownership issue and ensuring the security and well-being of the local population.
