WE SHALL ISOLATE THEM.

Bundibugyo District leaders held an interface meeting to review the reports on conflicts and human rights violations as shared by the citizens/community members and the application of the provisions of the Cultural Institutions Act at community. Present in the meeting were LCV chairperson, RDC, DISO, DPC, CAO, Resident state Attorney, ministers from OBB and OBR, leaders from faith based organization, UWA, women council leaders PWDs leaders and the Youth leaders and CDOs and police OC station for the implementing sub counties.

The key issues highlighted in the report were the role of individual in fueling conflicts. These are individual related and or working in the disguise of cultural institutions. Most citizens report conflicts related to the relationship with the armed forces, domestic related matters, land and matters related to handling cases in court and at police stations.

According the CO of Kanyamwirima Army Barracks, he agreed with the report and mentioned that “most people lack exposure…community still think individuals are bigger than them”. We need therefore to identify those few individuals who are using their power, influence and authority to cause problems in the District. It was noted that what appear in the reports is because the armed personnel relate more often with the community than any other public servant.

It was therefore resolves that, the office of the DCDO to direct all CDOs to conduct community sensitization on peace and conflict management than leaving the work to the NGOs. A further analysis of the current status after several interventions should be done to evaluate the efforts already put in place. Since children are most affected by conflicts, a review of the implementation of children related legal frameworks should be done to ensure children are protected. The CAO pledge to conduct a breakfast briefing with the civil servants reminding them of their mandate to protect children, women and other socially excluded groups for the good of the community.

In his closing remarks, the LCV chairperson mentioned that “...we must all work on the attitude and mindset of the people, to look at bundibugyo as our home where we all need to enjoy...ensure our people concentrate on issues that have value than mere politicking..”. We must all support and work on these areas highlighted in the report to improve the peaceful situation that we are starting to enjoy.