Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Marksons Oboth Oboth, advised ex-combatants to utilize the Resettlement Package judiciously, cautioning against viewing it as an entitlement or a business opportunity.
Oboth Oboth delivered these remarks on May 8, 2024, while presiding over the launch of payments totaling Ugx 5.1 billion to 4901 ex-combatants of the defunct West Nile Bank Front (WNBF) at Koboko district headquarters.
“This gesture represents a commitment by the Commander in Chief to the people of WNBF, marking a significant milestone in the region’s pacification and the civilian reintegration of ex-combatants,” stated Oboth Oboth.
The Minister urged the West Nile populace to embrace reconciliation as a form of justice, facilitating the ex-combatants’ contribution to community development and fostering social cohesion.
According to Minister Hudu Oleru Abason, Secretary of State for Defense and Veteran Affairs, the West Nile region endured significant hardships following the collapse of the Iddi Amin regime in 1979.
She noted that many rebels were exiled, leading to the emergence of insurgencies, some of which persisted into the post-1986 liberation era.
“I commend the ex-combatants for voluntarily surrendering their arms at Kerila, Yumbe district, marking a symbolic turning point in ending insurgent activities in the region,” remarked Oleru.
Dr. Charles Ayume, Member of Parliament for Koboko Municipality and Chairperson of the West Nile Parliamentary Caucus, lauded President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his efforts to restore peace in the country.
The event was attended by officials and staff from the Ministry of Defense and Veteran Affairs, Members of Parliament, Resident District Chairpersons, senior officers, and other leaders from the West Nile region.
The WNBF comprised former Uganda Army soldiers who remained loyal to Idi Amin, with its initial reported activity dating back to 1988. It evolved into a full-fledged insurgent force by 1994.
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