Justice Minister Nobert Mao Urges Unity for Acholi Community Amid Transition

By Kundu Ronald

Kampala, Uganda - August 20, 2023

In a compelling address at the launch of the Entebbe Acholi Development Association, Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister, Nobert Mao, emphasized the need for unity among the Acholi community as they navigate a significant transition period in Uganda's political landscape.

Minister Mao outlined a three-phase plan for the upcoming transition, which starts with building national consensus and understanding. He stressed the importance of ushering in a new era for Uganda post-2026 and highlighted that the forthcoming government would adopt a broad-centered approach. The minister expressed the belief that a cohesive center, capable of holding the nation together, was pivotal, even as extreme elements remained both in government and opposition ranks.

"Change is inevitable. President Museveni's role is to remove the bitterness from the meat, as there's been a spreading of hatred led by politicians," stated Mao. He lamented the chaos that often resulted from such divisive rhetoric, with youths paying the price.

Mao further characterized the country as a pressure cooker on the brink of exploding, and he reiterated that his decision to align with the government was aimed at defusing tensions and preventing a potential explosion. He acknowledged that this approach had met resistance from those who sought a more explosive outcome.

Speaking before members of the Entebbe Acholi Development Association, Minister Mao underlined the Acholi community's significance to President Museveni, noting their cautious yet warming approach towards him. On the legislative front, he revealed plans to introduce the National Dialogue and Reconciliation Commission Bill, providing an avenue for Ugandans to voice their grievances. The proposed bill also included provisions for a compensation fund benefiting all war victims, not solely those from the Acholi community.

The Minister disclosed that President Museveni had intended to attend the association's launch in person, emphasizing the cause's importance. Though unable to attend, the President chose Mao to represent him, generously donating 50 million Shillings to support the cause.

"You are fortunate. The President's pledges sometimes fall through the cracks, but right now, he needs people like you – people driven by a genuine love for a better Uganda," Mao said.

The association's chairperson, Consolate Acayo, recounted the Acholi community's challenges, including persecution by the Amin government, the Holy Spirit Movement, and the LRA wars. She underscored the unity that had sustained the Acholi through these hardships and emphasized the need to leverage that unity for a brighter future.

Among the association's objectives are fostering peace, sustainable resource use, education improvement, and skills development for the Acholi community. Acayo emphasized the potential for the Acholi region to become Uganda's breadbasket if agriculture is modernized. Environmental degradation, primarily through charcoal burning, and land grabbing emerged as pressing concerns.

Minister Mao aligned the association's goals with those of the government, highlighting President Museveni's readiness to support their initiatives. A meeting with the President was planned to directly present their agenda.

As the event culminated, Minister Mao joined in traditional dances and festivities, celebrating the launch of the Entebbe Acholi Development Association alongside scholars, politicians, and community members.