By Our Reporter
Soroti, Uganda – Political tensions escalated in Soroti City as Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) President Patrick Amuriat and Members of Parliament Joan Alobo (Soroti City Woman MP), Jonathan Ebwalu (Soroti City West MP), and Julius Ekudo (Akobo County MP) were arrested during a protest demanding government compensation for lost cattle.
The demonstration, organized under the slogan “No Cow, No Vote,” sought to highlight the government’s failure to compensate livestock keepers in Eastern and Northern Uganda for cattle lost during past insurgencies. However, the protest was swiftly suppressed by security forces, leading to the arrest of the opposition leaders and a violent crackdown on their supporters.
The protest was set to begin with prayers at the Public Gardens in Soroti City, but authorities sealed off the venue before the event could take place. Heavily armed security forces intercepted the FDC leaders, preventing them from addressing the crowd.
Police also fired tear gas to disperse protesters who attempted to join the demonstration, further intensifying public outrage.
Government Accused Of Neglect & Selective Compensation
Before his arrest, FDC President Patrick Amuriat criticized the government for failing to honor its commitment to compensate livestock owners in Teso and Northern Uganda.
“People lost their livelihoods, and to date, the government has turned a deaf ear. If they do not compensate our people, they should not expect our votes,” Amuriat declared, emphasizing the economic devastation caused by unfulfilled government promises.
Soroti City West MP Jonathan Ebwalu and Soroti City Woman MP Joan Alobo condemned what they described as a “selective compensation policy,” arguing that while some regions had received compensation, Teso sub-region remained excluded from the relief efforts.
Despite multiple attempts to reach regional police commander Damalie Nachuha, authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the arrests.
The lack of communication from law enforcement has sparked concern among opposition supporters and human rights activists, who are now demanding the immediate release of the detained leaders.
Meanwhile, supporters of the FDC and affected cattle owners have vowed to continue pressing the government for compensation, with some warning that the arrests will only fuel further resistance.
A Political Flashpoint Ahead of Elections?
The “No Cow, No Vote” movement highlights growing frustration in Eastern and Northern Uganda, where communities heavily rely on livestock for their livelihoods.
With national elections approaching, the crackdown on opposition leaders raises questions about political repression, selective justice, and the government’s commitment to addressing historical injustices.
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