A group of cattle herders in Northern Uganda, commonly referred to as Balalo, have petitioned Uganda’s Parliament, Ministry of Justice, and State House, demanding fresh verification before an eviction order is enforced, amid allegations that political leaders are exploiting the issue for tribal and electoral gain.
As the government prepares to implement President Museveni’s 2025 executive order regulating livestock movement, which takes effect on June 25, concerns are mounting over the forced relocation of nearly 950,000 cattle from Acholi land within a 24-hour window.
The affected herdsmen, some of whom reject the label “Balalo” as not representing a tribe, argue that the eviction is premature and unjust, calling instead for a thorough verification process before any enforcement.
“This is an unfair and unjust eviction order. You cannot say eviction first and verify later. There is no tribe called Balalo. These are our animals, and we denounce that name,” said spokesperson Yoweri Tumwine.
He questioned the silence of their political representatives and warned against the socio-economic consequences of uprooting livestock without clear plans.
The group, led by Twine Rwakabi and Tumwine, challenged political leaders who have reportedly used the eviction issue to stoke tribal tensions ahead of upcoming elections.
“We condemn the tribal complex being used as a political tool by figures such as Odonga Otto and Omona,” said Rwakabi.
He emphasized that Northern Uganda remains part of Uganda under the constitution, rejecting any attempts to portray it otherwise.
George Kasigwa, another herdsman, expressed frustration over calls by some politicians demanding the immediate removal of these cattle owners.
“People have invested millions and built permanent structures here. How can one day you wake up and tell them to leave? Where should they go? This is tribalistic and unfair,” Kasigwa said.
With the eviction order now in effect, the government faces a delicate balance between enforcing regulation and addressing the grievances of affected communities wary of marginalization and political manipulation.