Security Forces Begin Eviction of Balaalo Community in Pakwach District

 

Security forces in Pakwach District have launched a major operation to evict members of the Balaalo community from disputed lands in the area, citing illegal settlement and failure to comply with previous government directives.

The operation, which began early Thursday morning, involved joint efforts by the Uganda Police Force, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), and local leaders. Armed officers moved into areas including Panyimur and Wadelai sub-counties, where the Balaalo—pastoralists primarily from western Uganda—have reportedly been grazing their cattle on community and private land without formal authorization.

According to Pakwach Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Justine Mucunguzi, the eviction follows months of warnings and failed attempts to have the community voluntarily vacate the land.

“We have given them enough time to leave. This land was not lawfully acquired, and their presence has led to serious land conflicts with local communities,” the RDC said during a press briefing.

Local leaders and residents have repeatedly accused the Balaalo of allowing their cattle to destroy crops, pollute water sources, and disregard cultural boundaries—leading to increased tension and conflict in the region.

“We have suffered enough. Our gardens have been destroyed, and our livelihoods threatened,” said Patrick Ocen, a resident of Wadelai. “This eviction is long overdue.”

Human rights observers have, however, raised concerns over how the eviction is being conducted. Some Balaalo families, including women and children, were seen stranded by the roadside with their belongings after being forcefully removed.

“While we respect the need to uphold the law, evictions must be humane and follow due process,” said Mariam Nakirya, a field officer with a local human rights NGO. “We urge the government to provide temporary shelter and support to those affected.”

The government has struggled in recent years to regulate pastoral communities moving into northern Uganda, often in search of pasture. President Museveni previously ordered that all Balaalo without proper documentation or fenced grazing land be evicted from north districts.

As of Thursday evening, the operation was still ongoing, with security teams vowing to clear all unauthorized settlers by the end of the week. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm as the situation is brought under control.