Youths in Pader seek intervention from leaders in the Acholi sub-region

21 June 2025, 6:05 am

By Ayiro Golden Vicky

The 33 young people from Pader District, who were arrested in 2021 for allegedly causing unrest in the area, are now calling on leaders in the Acholi sub-region to come together and find solutions to their ongoing struggles. Of the 33 individuals who were convicted in 2023, only 12 have since returned home, leaving 21 still in prison.

These people are now appealing to cultural, religious, and political leaders in the Acholi sub-region to explore possible avenues for securing their release from the prisons where they remain incarcerated.

Kilama Okumu, District Councillor for Pader Town Council and one of the 33 convicts, noted that similar demonstrations occurred in Agago, Kitgum, and Gulu districts, but were peacefully resolved through the intervention of Acholi leaders. He is now appealing to those same leaders to intervene once again.

Speaking to Luo FM, Rwot Apwa Francis Orik, the cultural chief of Ker Kwaro Pader, emphasised the importance of mato oput, a traditional Acholi form of mediation that literally means ‘reconciliation between aggrieved persons’.

Similarly, Christopher Obol Arwai, the LCV Chairperson of Kitgum District, echoed the same sentiments, emphasising the need for mediation between aggrieved parties.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Ker Kwaro Acholi Cultural Institution, Martin Okumu, told Luo FM in an interview that the institution has not yet received any formal notification regarding the matter. However, he noted that the Acholi Cultural Institution is ready to intervene once the appropriate documentation is presented.

Archbishop Wilson Kitara of the Church of Uganda, Kitgum Diocese, stated that reconciliation is a fundamental aspect of life.

This appeal comes at a time when the community in Pader District is preparing to welcome back Kilama Fearless Wodacholi, the Urban Chairperson III, who has been in captivity.

The event is scheduled to take place at the Mayor’s Garden on 21st June 2025, with the Chief Guest being Hon. Norbert Mao, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, accompanied by other dignitaries.