Summary:

• A total of 141 former Lord’s Resistance Army combatants were welcomed at the SOS Community Centre in Gulu District, with the State Minister for Northern Uganda praising their decision to abandon rebellion, acknowledging their cultural ties, and assuring them of government support, while urging against engaging in illegal activities.

---

A group of 141 former Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) combatants were received at the SOS Community Centre, Pece Pawel Central in Gulu District.

The State Minister for Northern Uganda, Honorable Grace Freedom Kwiyucwiny, praised the ex-combatants for their choice to abandon rebellion and return home. She expressed gratitude for their commitment to Ugandan culture, noting that most of them could speak the Acholi language.

Minister Kwiyucwiny extended her appreciation to President Yoweri Museveni and government leaders for facilitating the returnees’ journey home. She emphasized that the government’s intention is not to subject them to hardship but to ensure they enjoy peace and lead fulfilling lives, underscoring the government’s commitment to treating them like any other citizen.

Furthermore, the Minister conveyed the government’s offer of amnesty for the ex-LRA combatants but cautioned against involvement in unlawful activities that could lead to legal consequences.

Brigadier General John Musoke, representing the 4 Infantry Division, expressed gratitude to the key figures who facilitated the return of the ex-LRA combatants. He assured them of safety and security while urging parents to continue advising their children. He called upon leaders to sensitize citizens for the betterment of Uganda.

Archbishop John Baptist Odama of Gulu Archdiocese appealed to the community to forgive the ex-LRA combatants, emphasizing their shared humanity and the need for peace and harmony.

Dr. Ocaya, speaking on behalf of the returnees, thanked the Government of Uganda and the UPDF leadership for their efforts in bringing them back home. He expressed remorse for their time in the bush and requested total forgiveness, pledging a commitment to living in peace with the community.

APRU Pax, an NGO based in Gulu, pledged support by providing the returnees with food, medical attention, and other necessities.

The event was attended by various dignitaries, including Brigadier General Patrick Ocen, Chairperson of the Technical Committee; Mrs. Jane Francese Okili, Resident City Commissioner; Mr. Alfred Okwonga, Mayor of Gulu City; Mr. John Lumumba, Coordinator of APRU Pax; Mr. Opiyo Christopher, LCV Gulu district; Members of Parliament from Northern Uganda; religious leaders; cultural leaders; and other government officials.