By James Alomu 

In a passionate address to war victims in the Teso sub-region, National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, widely known as Bobi Wine, pledged swift and decisive justice for survivors of past insurgencies.

Speaking at Eneku Village, Soroti City, Kyagulanyi declared that if elected president, his administration would compensate victims within two weeks, asserting that “two weeks is enough” if political will exists.

The community engagement event drew hundreds of survivors, local leaders, and civil society members who gathered to share testimonies and demand long-overdue reparations for the losses suffered during violent conflicts in the late 1980s and early 2000s.

“For decades, you’ve been reduced to begging for a single cow,” Kyagulanyi told the crowd. “But you deserve so much more justice, dignity, and full compensation for the lives, property, and future that were stolen from you. Two weeks is all it takes to pay what you’re owed, if there’s political will.”

Kyagulanyi further signed a Memorandum of Hope (MOH) with representatives of the Teso war victims, symbolizing his commitment to restoring what was lost—particularly livestock, which formed the economic backbone of many families in the region.

Leading the victims’ appeal was Julius Ocen, a prominent advocate for war-affected communities, who estimated total compensation needs at Shs 4 trillion. Ocen cited widespread displacement, psychological trauma, and the loss of over 15,000 lives—many of whom remain in unmarked mass graves. He criticized the government's lack of action in offering proper burial, restitution, or healing programs.

“We have suffered in silence,” Ocen said. “The compensation process is riddled with corruption, and efforts are constantly sabotaged. Our people are dying without receiving justice.”

Ocen also pointed fingers at the Teso Animal Protection and Compensation Organization (TAPCO), which he accused of colluding with elements in the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) to block or manipulate claims, further exacerbating the community’s suffering.

Kyagulanyi was accompanied by Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi, who voiced strong support for the victims and denounced both the government and some regional leaders for their inaction.

“It’s painful that when we advocate for the rights of Teso victims, some of the loudest voices against us come from leaders within the region,” Ssenyonyi remarked. “That must change. We are here to stand with you.”

The NUP leader emphasized that a future government under his leadership would not only expedite the compensation process but also hold accountable those responsible for historic injustices. He pledged to institute transparent mechanisms to prevent corruption and ensure justice reaches every victim.

“Let these people get their compensation before they die,” Kyagulanyi said. “Justice delayed is justice denied. No more empty promises. We are here to make sure your voice counts.”

The rally marks a pivotal political moment in the Teso sub-region, which has long expressed dissatisfaction with the central government’s neglect. Kyagulanyi’s vow of swift action brought a wave of hope among attendees, many of whom have waited decades for recognition and redress.

Whether his pledge will translate into policy and action remains to be seen. But the message was clear: the people of Teso are no longer willing to suffer in silence and they expect leaders who listen,