Tekwaro Lango Chief sends condolence to Mumbere, Mourns children killed by ADF

By Denis Okello (denis.okello@vol.co.ug)

Lira

Tekwaro Lango Paramount Chief (Won Nyaci) Eng Dr Michael Moses Odongo Okune has sent a message of condolence to Charles Wesley Mumbere the Rwenzururu King (Omusinga wa Rwenzururu) following a deadly terrorist attack by suspected ADF rebels at Lhubiriha Secondary School, Nyabugando located in Mpondwe-Lhubiriha Town Council.

The stampede killed 42 students, injured scores and left others kidnapped.

The rebels used machetes to kill the students while others died in their dormitories after petrol bombs were thrown inside.

The school which offers co education had a boarding section with 67 students. Reports say 17 students were burnt beyond recognition. The charred bodies of 22 were handed over to respective families and buried.

“…our hearts go out to the bereaved families, the people of Kasese and their leadership upon this unfortunate incident by the retrogressive enemies of humanity…” reads part of the condolence message.

Okune who draws from past similar massacres at Barlonyo in Lira, Abia in Alebtong, Abok Sub County, in Lango and in other areas of Northern Uganda during the Kony-led Insurgency describes the Kasese attack as heart wrenching.

He condemned the incident saying losing innocent children in such barbaric and criminal manner must never be allowed to repeat itself anywhere again because it demoralizes the community.

“…the young boys and girls were beaming with ambition and hope as they prepare to be groomed to serve their families and the nation which have been brutally cut short….” Okune’s message reads.

Okune also lauded President Yoweri Museveni for his insightful approach of deploying the UPDF troops which launched the Operation Shuja in neighboring DR Congo which has for long been a springboard

He also thanked the efforts being made by the UPDF soldiers to eliminate the ADF rebel group inside the dense jungles of Congo which will soon pacify the region for meaningful trade between the two peoples.

Okune also used the opportunity to urge Ugandans to appreciate and guard zealously the peace being enjoyed in the country and avoid situations that can make it slide into lawlessness like Sudan, Libya and Somalia.

Okune also asked the people of Kasese not to lose hope but to continue cooperating by providing information to all relevant security agencies like the military and the police for timely intervention.

“… the local residents should appreciate the importance of peace and tranquility like our people in Northern Uganda did, which will make it very difficult for the criminally-minded people to infiltrate communities…”,he said.