By Mulengera Reporters
Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential candidate Nathan Nandala Mafabi has blamed the increasing number of mental health cases in Acholi Sub-region on the government’s neglect following the devastating Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency.
Addressing rallies in Atiak and Pabbo Town Councils, Mafabi highlighted troubling statistics: approximately 700 people are diagnosed with mental health issues each month in the region.
He attributed this crisis to the government’s failure to address the long-term psychological and social impact of the LRA conflict.
Mafabi’s pledge to improve mental health services was one of several promises aimed at tackling the root causes of poverty and underdevelopment in the region. “Mental health is directly linked to the poverty and ignorance that plague this area. Yet, the government has shown no concern for these pressing issues,” Mafabi said.
He promised that, if elected, his government would overhaul the mental health system and provide long-term solutions to the region’s economic and social challenges.
Mafabi also turned his focus to land issues in Acholi, where many residents have lost their property to powerful individuals and large-scale farming projects.
During his speeches, he criticized the government for facilitating land grabs under the guise of “zero grazing,” an initiative that has led to massive displacement of communities.
Mafabi promised to return the land to its rightful owners, emphasizing that a strong government should protect citizens’ land and property rights.
“I know many of you have lost cattle, and I hear there’s a 10-man committee to investigate the issue. But this is not a matter for committees. It’s a legal issue, and the government must take action to protect your property,” Mafabi declared. He promised to compensate cattle owners based on current market values, not the arbitrary sums being offered by the government. “Why settle for five cows when your herds were much larger? Your losses should be compensated in full.”
In addition to land restitution, Mafabi criticized the government’s extravagant spending on political campaigns, particularly the billions spent on posters and billboards. “President Museveni has been in power for 40 years. Does he really need more billboards and T-shirts? Imagine if that money had been used to support farmers or provide tractors. You would be better off,” Mafabi said.
He proposed a more practical, people-centered approach to economic development.
His plan includes supporting farmers by ensuring their produce is bought at fair prices, with a government-backed insurance system to mitigate crop loss. “Whatever you produce, we will buy. If you lose, insurance will compensate you,” Mafabi promised.
Mafabi also vowed to compensate families who lost loved ones and properties during the LRA insurgency, taking into account at least 20 years of inflation.
He promised to restore jobs to those terminated without benefits from the Atiak Sugar Factory, a local employer that had let workers go without proper compensation.
In his call to action, Mafabi urged the people of Acholi to reject the status quo and vote for a government that would prioritize their needs. “I have a proven track record of leadership,” he said. “As a 25-year legislator and advisor to the World Bank, I know how to bring about real change. Together, we can restore hope to Acholi.” (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
