Some 10,805 people from various districts have dragged government to court seeking for Shs 25 billion compensation for the alleged losses they suffered during the I986 political insurgency.
The lead petitioners are John Kitaka, James Galimaka, Henry Matovu, Fred Byegumye Batumbya and James Wandira Muruli from the districts of Nakasongola, Buyende, Masindi, Kiryandongo and Kayunga. They are represented by Nyombi and Company Advocates.
They contend that during the 1981-1987 war, they owned several livestock including sheep, goats, cattle and property that was destroyed during the insurgency that ushered in the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government. They also contend that they were displaced from their homes.
They argue that government failed in its duty by not compensating them like people affected by the war in other regions. They also observe that they have brought the suit to court 33 years later because government has repeatedly failed to honour its promises to compensate them.
The petitioners say they have been deprived of their property, livelihood and development due to government’s failure to compensate them. They also claim that they have continued to wallow in total poverty and untold suffering hence pushing for compensation.
Court has since summoned the attorney general to file his defense within fifteen days of service or else court will proceed without it. The said insurgency was sparked off by several opposition groups that were challenging President Apollo Milton Obote’s leadership.
Between 100,000 and 500,000 people including combatants and civilians are estimated to have lost their lives and thousands displaced from their homes.