Efforts to start the repatriation of Lakwena’s ex-fighters are gaining momentum. Acholi Paramount Chief David Onen Acana II will lead the discussions. Meanwhile, around 1,000 former Holy Spirit Movement (HSM) fighters remain stranded in Kenya. They have lived in Dadaab Camp for over three decades.
These fighters fled Uganda in 1987 after suffering heavy military defeats. Notably, they lost crucial battles like the one at Magamaga in Mayuge District. Consequently, many crossed into Kenya, where they have stayed for years.
At a traditional cleansing ceremony in Gulu City, Rwot Acana shared the new developments. He explained that some of Lakwena’s fighters want to return home. Therefore, he pledged to collaborate with government, cultural, and religious leaders to ensure a smooth repatriation of Lakwena’s ex-fighters.
“We will do everything to ensure they return safely to Uganda,” Rwot Acana promised during the ceremony.
The Acholi Religious Leaders’ Peace Initiative (ARLPI) immediately welcomed the plan. In fact, Mr. Musa Khalil, ARLPI’s chairperson, stated that their organization will help facilitate the repatriation. Moreover, he emphasized that all leaders must work together to restore peace and trust.
However, Gulu City Woman MP Ms. Betty Aol Ocan advised caution. She urged the government to repatriate only those willing to return. Otherwise, she warned, forcing anyone could create new tensions.
Additionally, Gulu District chairperson Mr. Christopher Opiyo Ateker shared his concern. He said many former fighters now struggle with illness and old age. Therefore, leaders must act quickly to complete the repatriation of Lakwena’s ex-fighters before conditions worsen.
About Alice Auma ‘Lakwena’
Alice Auma, widely known as Lakwena, founded the Holy Spirit Movement in 1986. Initially, she rallied fighters who felt abandoned by the Uganda People’s Democratic Movement/Army. Guided by spiritual visions, she launched a dramatic rebellion against Uganda’s government.
However, after facing crushing defeats, Lakwena fled with about 150 fighters to Kenya. She lived there in exile until she died in 2007. Later, her family brought her body back for burial in Gulu City.
A New Chance for Healing
Clearly, the repatriation of Lakwena’s ex-fighters marks more than just a homecoming. It creates a fresh opportunity to heal long-standing wounds. Nevertheless, reintegrating the former fighters will require careful planning and community support.
Thus, if leaders handle the process thoughtfully, Uganda can close a painful chapter and open a new one built on peace and reconciliation.
