By Emmanuel Eumu
In a passionate plea for justice, legislators from North and Eastern Uganda have demanded that the government prioritize livestock compensation payments for war claimants who have long awaited restitution. During a heated plenary session in Parliament on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, representatives from the Lango, Teso, West Nile, and Acholi sub-regions pressed for action on behalf of those who have suffered losses due to conflict.
Linda Auma, the Lira District Woman Member of Parliament, spearheaded the call for targeted compensation, emphasizing the need to address specific court cases before embarking on generalized payments. Auma criticized Attorney General Kiwanuka Kiryowa’s stance against prioritizing payments for claimants who pursued legal recourse, citing financial constraints and the importance of honoring legal proceedings.
“Why is Attorney General Kiwanuka Kiryowa resistant to ensuring that claimants from affected regions receive full compensation?” questioned Auma, echoing the sentiments of her constituents. Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa urged Kiryowa to present the matter to the cabinet for a comprehensive solution, highlighting the urgency of the issue.
Prime Minister Robina Nabbanja has been tasked with delivering a detailed report on the matter within the next three weeks, signaling a commitment from the government to address the longstanding grievances of war claimants. MP Jimmy Akena of Lira City East echoed the sentiment, advocating for realistic budget allocations to accommodate the needs of claimants across the affected regions.
As the debate rages on in Parliament, the plight of war claimants remains at the forefront of the national agenda. With pressure mounting on the government to act swiftly and justly, the fight for restitution for those affected by conflict in northeastern Uganda continues unabated.
