Census: Locals in West Nile districts with contested borders urged to remain calm
Leaders in the districts with contested borders have called for calm amongst populace the during the upcoming census.
The districts include Madi Okollo, Terego, and Yumbe.
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Villages like Ariwa, Odobu, Ocea, Katiku, Marize, Kariyedraku and Ewanga have been under contestation for a long time and have had a share share of violence during census.
As tensions rise in these areas, the leaders are issuing calls for calm and restraint, particularly with the national census on the horizon. This stems from the numerous unresolved border conflicts that are pitting districts against each other.
Drabe Ismael, the LC V chairman of Madi Okollo District says that they are maintaining their known boundaries.
"For us, we will go by our traditionally known villages and whoever says the contrary should justify but every one will be counted," Drabe said
According to the state minister for urban development, Mario Obiga Kania, these wrangles have been fueled by destructive local politics and struggles to raise local revenues.
"These problems emanate from sub-county levels and they are about the local revenues from markets and who is collecting this revenue," Kania said.
Amidst these border disputes, Kania says any disturbances or inaccuracies in data collection could have far-reaching implications for governance and public services.
He now seeks to foster understanding, tolerance, and cooperation among the populace, thereby mitigating tensions and facilitating the smooth conduct of the census.
"Lets allow the locals to be counted in their parishes and villages so that everyone is counted, one time these people will belong to Madi or Terego after the counting, but if you stop them from the counting you are denying the whole area services."
In their calls for calm, leaders emphasize the importance of peaceful resolution mechanisms and dialogue to address border disputes. They highlight the need for all parties involved to prioritize the greater good of the nation and its citizens over individual interests or territorial claims.
"Let all the political leaders with interest a get away from those areas, if need be, let security register the people and bring the results," Kania added.
Wilfred Saka , the LC V for Terego district said, "let government resolve this matter. Taking too long in a conflict makes opportunities pass-by, without being noticed. "
They urge communities in these conflict-affected areas to participate fully in the census process, ensuring that every individual is counted accurately.
By doing so, they can contribute to the creation of a comprehensive and reliable database that reflects the true demographic landscape of the nation.
