A group of political activists in West Nile Sub-region has issued a warning about the possible emergence of another rebel group if the government does not address the issues of former combatants in the region.
The West Nile Pro-reform Agenda (WENPRA), based in Yumbe District, expressed concerns that trouble could arise from former members of the defunct Uganda National Rescue Front (UNRF II) who were not fully compensated.
According to Sheikh Muzamil Musa Alumgbu and Mr. Andruga Batta, members of WENPRA, there are individuals who were left out when the government reached a truce with UNRF II in December 2002.
They claim that some former rebels, led by Brig Rajab Ayiga Ayile, were not fully addressed in the peace process.
The activists argue that these individuals should not be labeled as mere robbers but as rebels who have been in South Sudan and have returned to Uganda. They are calling for blanket amnesty for these individuals.
Members of WENPRA have petitioned the Amnesty Commission to recognize Brig Ayiga’s group and resettle them.
They claim that Brig Ayiga surrendered voluntarily with the hope of being granted amnesty, as promised by the President.
However, they allege that this promise has not been fulfilled.
The activists warn that if these issues are not addressed, Brig Ayiga’s group may attract more residents to join them, potentially leading to the emergence of a new rebel insurgency.
The chairman of the Amnesty Commission in North West Nile, Col (rtd) Obitre Gama, stated that he is studying the petition and will provide a response in due course.
Meanwhile, the UPDF 4th Division spokesperson, Maj Telesphor Mwirima Nduhira, expressed that he is not aware of Brig Ayiga’s arrest and the alleged transfer of his fighters to Nakasongola Barracks by the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence.