The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party president, Patrick Amuriat, along with Members of Parliament Joan Alobo (Soroti City Woman), Jonathan Ebwalu (Soroti City West), and Julius Ekudo (Akobo County), were arrested following a protest in Soroti City demanding government compensation for lost livestock.
Under the slogan “No Cow, No Vote,” the leaders took to the streets to condemn the government’s failure to honor its promise to compensate farmers who lost cattle during past insurgencies.
The demonstration, which was intended to include prayers at the Public Gardens in Soroti City, faced heavy police resistance. Security forces blocked access to the venue and intercepted the leaders before they could address the crowd. Several supporters who attempted to join the protest were dispersed by police using tear gas.
Before his arrest, Amuriat expressed the frustration of cattle keepers in Eastern and Northern Uganda, pointing out that despite the government’s previous promises to compensate those affected by the loss of livestock, no tangible action has been taken.
“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 stated.
Both Soroti City West MP Jonathan Ebwalu and Soroti City Woman MP Joan Alobo also criticized the government’s “selective compensation policy.” They argued that while some regions have received compensation, the Teso sub-region, in particular, has been left out.
Attempts to reach the regional police commander, Damalie Nachuha, for comment were unsuccessful.
Despite the arrests and police crackdown, supporters have vowed to continue pressing for compensation, and tensions remain high as it is uncertain whether the government will address the growing demands of the protestors.
