By James Alomu 

Teso war victims have strongly criticized regional leaders for allegedly misleading President Yoweri Museveni on the matter of compensation, claiming that the government has shifted focus from court-ordered reparations to restocking initiatives that do not address the victims’ legal entitlements.

During a press conference held at the Teso War Victims’ office in Soroti, Julius Ocen, chairman of the Teso War Claimants, voiced the group's frustration over what they perceive as a deliberate attempt by teso leaders to misrepresent the issue to the president. Ocen stated that the war claimants, who went to court on behalf of thousands who lost property during the Teso insurgency, are disappointed that the government has not honored the court ruling that directed compensation.

According to Ocen, the number of registered war victims stands at approximately 205,000 across the Teso sub-region. He noted that the court ruling determined that the government must compensate the victims with a total sum of 4.5 trillion Ugandan shillings. The claimants voluntarily sought legal redress, hired their own lawyers, and successfully obtained a judgment in their favor. Ocen emphasized that the High Court's decision is binding and cannot be overturned by any government official, including the president.

However, the victims say the government, through the Attorney General's office, recently indicated a shift in direction. Instead of monetary compensation, the state reportedly plans to provide a limited number of cows to affected families, effectively replacing the court-mandated compensation with a restocking program. This has angered the war claimants, who argue that such a move undermines the justice system and disrespects the victims’ suffering.

Ocen directly accused some Teso leaders of providing false information to the president, claiming they are driven by self-interest and political gain. He further urged President Museveni to engage directly with the war victims, rather than relying on intermediaries who do not represent their views or legal standing.

Other members of the claimant Osigire John Steven, Ogwang Francis Olebe, and Kirya Tahati Moses, reiterated their position that while restocking may be helpful, it cannot replace the rightful compensation ordered by the courts. They accused local politicians of focusing on personal profit and blinding the president to the realities on the ground.

The victims are now calling for an urgent meeting with the president to ensure that justice, not politics, guides the path forward.

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