Lira RCC to UPC: Stop Claiming Credit for Northern Peace, Recognize Museveni and UPDF's Sacrifices

Lira, Uganda: Uganda: The Resident City Commissioner (RCC) of Lira, Lawrence Emmy Egole, has issued a strong warning to members of the Uganda People's Congress (UPC) against claiming credit for the restoration of peace in northern Uganda.

Speaking at a gathering recently, during the closing ceremony of a three-day health camp organized by the Uganda Heart Institute at Lira Regional Referral Hospital, Commissioner Egole addressed UPC President Jimmy James Michael Akena directly. He emphasized that the government, under President Yoweri Museveni, and the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) were the primary forces behind the region's hard-won peace after years of insurgency.

"While politicians and political parties are entitled to their views, it is misleading for UPC to claim credit for the peace process. The restoration of peace in northern Uganda is a result of the government’s deliberate policies and the tireless efforts of the UPDF, alongside dedicated NRM cadres who joined the struggle to end the war," Egole stated.

He further highlighted that the peace and stability enjoyed by northern Uganda today were achieved through years of President Museveni’s leadership and the sacrifices of UPDF soldiers who fought to secure the region.

"The peace we have today was not achieved through political talks but through combat. Our soldiers defeated Joseph Kony and his group. I want this to be clear because even some of us joined the Amuka local army group, and none of them were part of any peace talks," Egole recalled.

The RCC urged UPC to acknowledge the government’s achievements rather than attempting to appropriate credit for what he described as a collective national effort. He stressed that the region’s peace is a direct result of President Museveni’s vision and the UPDF’s sacrifices.

The statement has sparked mixed reactions, with some UPC supporters arguing that the party played a significant role in advocating for peace, while others agree that the UPDF’s efforts in combating insurgency were pivotal.

During his tour, UPC members have been informing the Lango community that the peace enjoyed today is largely due to the sacrifices of UPC President Jimmy Akena, who reportedly went to the bush to meet Joseph Kony. However, Egole dismissed these claims, reiterating that peace was achieved through military confrontation, not political negotiations.

As northern Uganda’s political landscape continues to evolve, the call for unity and recognition of the government’s contributions to peace remains a central theme in discussions about the region’s progress.