By Tolit Ivan
Rwot David Onen Acana II, the Acholi Paramount Chief, has asked the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) to halt, with immediate effect, the ongoing eviction of locals from the contested Aswa and Acholi ranches in Pader district.
An estimated 2,000 locals are living in the two ranches, according to reports.
On Friday, Rwot Acana II met with the top UPDF officials from the UPDF 5th Division Infantry Headquarters where he condemned the ongoing operation, asking security to halt the eviction exercise as government and local leaders resolve the tensions surrounding the ownership and management of both ranches.
Rwot Acana also condemned reports that the UPDF were flogging his subjects, destroying and stealing their food crops.
The long-standing dispute, involving the government, private investors, and the local Acholi community, has sparked anger and mistrust among residents.
However, Capt. Edrine Mawaanda, the UPDF 5th Division Infantry Public Information Officer, denied the allegations saying UPDF is also evicting illegal charcoal dealers and people who have settled in the government land illegally.
Aswa Ranch is among the state-owned ranches where over 2,000 cattle are being bred for the multiplication of improved breeds for distribution to communities in Northern Uganda.
Meanwhile, in December, 2023, Pader local government leased Acholi Ranch to Pura Organic Agrotech Limited at a cost of Shs 365million for five years.
