Judah, a resident of Kapkwata, has tragically passed away. Reports indicate that he was allegedly beaten and tortured by officials from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) on Sunday. Following the incident, Judah was rushed to Kapchorwa Hospital in critical condition, but despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries.
This heartbreaking incident highlights the need for accountability and justice for those affected by such acts. Judah’s death is a painful reminder of the importance of safeguarding human rights and ensuring that enforcement authorities operate within the confines of the law.
The tragic death of Judah from Kapkwata, following alleged beatings and torture by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) officials, underscores a broader pattern of conflict between UWA and local communities in the Sebei region. These tensions have been ongoing since 1992, when the government gazetted Mt. Elgon National Park, leading to disputes over land rights and resource access.
The Benet community, indigenous to the area, has faced significant challenges due to these conflicts. In September 2022, the Benet took legal action against UWA for past human rights abuses and organized peaceful assemblies to reclaim their land. Following these actions, reports indicate that UWA agents increased attacks on the Benet, often using lethal force against community members found within or near the park boundaries.
In July 2022, women and children from the Benet community peacefully occupied the UWA station in Piswa, Kween district, to protest ongoing evictions and demand the release of their impounded animals. This act of protest highlighted the community’s desperation and the severity of the situation.
These incidents have prompted calls for solutions to the persistent conflicts between UWA and locals bordering Mt. Elgon National Park. Leaders from the Sebei and Bugisu sub-regions have been seeking ways to resolve these disputes amicably, emphasizing the need for a balance between conservation efforts and the rights of indigenous communities.
The death of Judah serves as a somber reminder of the urgent need to address these conflicts and ensure that the rights and lives of local communities are protected. It is imperative for authorities to conduct thorough investigations into such incidents and implement measures to prevent future occurrences.
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