The State Minister for Northern Uganda Rehabilitation Affairs, Kenneth Omona, has raised concern over the alleged involvement of some security personnel in land-related disputes in Greater Northern Uganda, accusing them of colluding with Balaalo herdsmen to illegally acquire land.
Omona said the alleged conduct of a few officers is aggravating already sensitive land tensions between local communities and pastoral groups, warning that continued malpractice could undermine peace and stability in the region.
“The actions of some individuals within the security apparatus are worsening the already fragile land relations in Northern Uganda,” Omona is quoted as saying, adding that the government has received multiple complaints from residents regarding improper involvement of officers in land transactions.
According to him, some officers are accused of either facilitating land dealings that contravene existing regulations or failing to intervene in cases of illegal occupation. He stressed that such behaviour, if confirmed, would represent a serious breach of duty.
“Security agencies are mandated to protect citizens and enforce the law without bias. Any deviation from this responsibility will not be tolerated,” he said, calling for immediate internal investigations and accountability measures where wrongdoing is established.
Omona also urged affected communities to remain calm as authorities handle the matter, emphasising that land disputes should be resolved through legal and peaceful mechanisms rather than confrontation.
The issue of Balaalo herdsmen and land occupation continues to generate concern across Northern Uganda, with stakeholders repeatedly calling for stronger enforcement of land governance laws and clearer regulation of pastoral activities.
