Orom residents call for action over rising witchcraft cases

26 August 2026, 5:44 pm

By Otim Moses

Residents of Orom Sub-county in Chua East Constituency, Kitgum District, are calling for increased community policing and public sensitisation following reports of rising cases of witchcraft-related violence in the area.

The concern was raised by Kitgum District Councillor representing Youth, Hon Odongo Charles, who said alleged witchcraft cases were increasing as competition among members of the business community intensified.

Odongo said that about two weeks ago, an elderly man in one of the villages in Orom Sub-county allegedly killed his in-law over accusations of practising witchcraft. He added that another suspected witchcraft-related incident had occurred recently, with the burial of the victim yet to take place.

Odongo called for increased community policing and public sensitisation on the dangers and consequences of witchcraft-related accusations and violence. He also urged religious and cultural leaders to intervene, educate communities about the dangers of such practices and encourage peaceful ways of resolving conflicts.

The Assistant Resident District Commissioner for Kitgum in charge of Chua East, Mr Geoffrey Oguti, said witchcraft-related concerns were common in Orom Sub-county and urged residents to desist from such practices.

Oguti encouraged residents seeking success in business and other aspects of life to rely on lawful means and prayer rather than witchcraft.