By Aggrey Baba
An old Acholi proverb says, “When brothers fight, strangers inherit their father’s estate.” Now, in a historic turn of events, elected leaders from the Acholi sub-region have chosen unity over division, setting aside their political differences to focus on economic transformation.
This landmark agreement was reached during a recent crucial meeting with President Yoweri Museveni at State House in Entebbe.
For years, political rivalries have often hindered progress, but this meeting signified a fresh start. Leaders across the political spectrum pledged to work together to combat poverty and foster socio-economic growth in Acholi.
Opposition MPs, led by Chua West County legislator Okin Ojara (Forum for Democratic Change), formally presented a memorandum to the President, outlining their commitment to cooperation.
Museveni reflected on Uganda’s turbulent political history, emphasizing that sustainable development is only possible through unity. He recounted how past sectarianism weakened national cohesion and led to missed opportunities. “In 1976, I trained young men from Acholi in Mozambique. But when we captured Kampala in 1979, some abandoned us due to sectarian influences. That is how tribal politics worked against national unity,” Museveni said.
He urged the leaders to learn from past mistakes, citing the fall of Idi Amin’s regime in 1979 as a moment when national reconciliation should have taken precedence over revenge.
The discussions covered several key areas. The government reaffirmed its commitment to the Parish Development Model (PDM) but acknowledged challenges in financing large parishes. Museveni emphasized the need for seed secondary schools in every sub-county to ensure children can walk or cycle to school.
He also highlighted the importance of preventive measures, including immunization, clean water, and proper nutrition, to reduce healthcare costs. Leaders called for greater transparency in the compensation process for Acholi war victims.
Ojara revealed that 10 opposition MPs had formed a platform called “Operation Harmony” to ensure Acholi’s transformation. “We asked ourselves: Should we remain in the opposition while our people continue to suffer? How long should we wait before working towards prosperity?” he said.
The memorandum presented to Museveni included proposals for a mental rehabilitation center in Acholi to address post-war trauma, upgrading Kitgum Hospital and establishing regional referral hospitals in Omoro and Amuru districts, promoting commercial farming through perennial crops like coffee and cocoa, and expanding skilling hubs modeled after the Gulu Presidential Skilling Hub.
Gulu City Woman MP Betty Aol stressed that political differences should not stand in the way of development. Disaster preparedness minister Hillary Onek echoed this sentiment, urging unity for the common good.
Other attendees included NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong, Internal Affairs State Minister Gen. David Muhoozi, and Northern Uganda State Minister Dr. Kenneth Omona.
As the Acholi leaders embark on this new path, they have set an example for the rest of the country, proving that, in the end, development speaks louder than political rivalry. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
