Two decades after he stunned the country by attempting to eat a live rat in protest, Gerald Omaset, now the chairperson of Morukatipe Sub-county in Tororo District, is celebrating what he calls the fulfilment of a long and painful struggle.
Government has officially approved the creation of three new districts and a city from the larger Tororo District—a development he considers both a personal victory and a historic moment for the region.
In 2005, Omaset made headlines when he attempted to consume a rat in front of President Museveni, demanding that Tororo be divided to improve service delivery and local representation.
His act, shocking to many, quickly became a symbol of a deeper grievance that had been simmering since the late 1990s.
"Many were claiming the fight was tribal. No, it was to create job opportunities for our people," Omaset told the Nile Post.
"That’s why you see people are now celebrating."
Omaset insists his act was not unprecedented. He claims earlier protestors had resorted to the same dramatic gesture in 1938 and 1947.
“The first was Ibrahim from Kwapa, and the second was Omoding. Both died within months, but not because of the rats,” he added, noting that Omoding was nearly 80 years old at the time of his protest.
Though unorthodox, Omaset’s actions helped draw national attention to a long-standing administrative dispute rooted in complex historical and ethnic dynamics.
The demand for the division of Tororo gained momentum after a 1998 clash between Mukuju Sub-county, predominantly inhabited by the Iteso, and the Tororo District administration over local revenue sharing.
At the centre of the row was Tororo Cement Factory, with Mukuju leaders demanding 65 percent of the revenue it remitted—a demand the district rejected, deepening resentment.
Over the years, several efforts to resolve the dispute failed.
Ethnic and political divisions widened, and appeals for separation became more urgent.
The turning point came recently, following mediation led by Vice President Jessica Alupo.
Her engagement with leaders from the area culminated in a breakthrough meeting with President Museveni at State House.
Shortly thereafter, government announced the creation of Mukuju District, Mulanda District, a new Tororo City, and a yet-to-be-named fourth district.
The new entities await Cabinet endorsement before being presented to Parliament for final approval and budgetary consideration.
As the announcement sparked celebrations across affected communities, Omaset called for a new chapter focused on unity and development.
"With these creations, we should now focus on unity and develop our areas," he said.
"We must stop unnecessary quarrelling and tribal sentiments. We shall not accept any future tribal conflicts here. Our children deserve peace and opportunity."
Residents hope the new administrative units will bring better access to services, employment opportunities, and stronger political representation.
For Omaset, who risked ridicule and disbelief for his method of protest, the news marks the end of a long journey—and proof, he says, that even the most unusual stand can lead to lasting change.