Fears of escalating armed conflict are gripping Kasese as suspected members of the Islamist Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) terror group increase their attacks.
Recent events have shaken the community’s sense of security, with the gruesome killing of two foreign tourists and their Ugandan guide in Queen Elizabeth National Park on Tuesday.
Residents who were first responders at the scene described the horrifying discovery of lifeless bodies and a burning Toyota Landcruiser tour car, believed to be the result of a suspected ADF attack.
Modesto Kasereka, one of the witnesses, highlighted the need for improved security, pointing out that the poor state of the Katwe-Katunguru road, where the attack occurred, leaves people vulnerable to danger.
Reports suggest that ADF elements are finding their way back into Uganda through Kasese following intense pressure from the UPDF’s joint counter-terror operations in eastern DR Congo, as acknowledged by President Museveni and the army.
Locals are concerned about the limited security presence in the district, especially as Kasese prepares to host the 57th coronation anniversary of Omusinga Charles Wesley Mumbere Iremangoma, the Rwenzururu cultural leader.
The return of Omusinga Mumbere, after seven years of banishment, raises additional security questions.
Residents like Livan Thembo expressed their concerns about the considerable distance between the scene of the attack and the nearest army detachment, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures.
Bukonzo West MP, Atkins Godfrey Katusabe, also questioned the effectiveness of security agencies in preventing ADF attacks.
He pointed out the quick deployment of security personnel at political functions but the failure to detect and thwart such heinous acts.
Despite the underlying security tensions, Kasese’s outward appearance remains calm.
However, John Bosco Kananura, chairperson of Katwe K’abatooro Town Council, is worried about the negative impact this fear could have on the local economy, heavily reliant on tourism.
The deputy resident district commissioner, Lt Maate Magwara, acknowledged the challenge presented by the porous border with the DR Congo and urged locals to provide intelligence information to the joint security forces.
As the Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu anniversary is celebrated in Kasese, the security forces, led by the police, are committed to ensuring attendees’ safety, despite suspected ADF attacks in the area.