Kasambya County MP and Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) National Chairman Daudi Kabanda has issued a strong warning to individuals who have opposed the presence of Balaalo pastoralists in Northern Uganda, saying those who attempted to fight them will face consequences for their actions.
In a message posted on X, Kabanda appeared to take a firm position in support of the Balaalo, warning their opponents that their actions would not go unanswered. His remarks have added another layer to the ongoing debate surrounding pastoralists and their presence in Northern Uganda.
“Whoever attempted to fight Balaalo in Northern Uganda will pay. Some of them are already sneezing. You cannot fight Bachwezi who brought us together for 500 years and expect to have peace,” Kabanda wrote.
The MP’s choice of words, particularly his reference to the Bachwezi, attracted attention because he went beyond the usual political arguments surrounding cattle keeping and land ownership to invoke historical narratives associated with Uganda’s past.
Kabanda’s remarks come against the background of longstanding disagreements between some local communities and Balaalo pastoralists over land access, cattle grazing, alleged encroachment and the effects of large herds on agricultural activities. The disagreements have at times attracted political and government intervention.
In Northern Uganda, some local leaders and residents have repeatedly raised concerns about the presence of pastoralists, arguing that their activities should respect land ownership, local regulations and the interests of indigenous communities. The Balaalo question has therefore remained a sensitive issue involving economic, cultural and political interests.
However, Kabanda’s warning has introduced a fresh dimension to the debate, with his statement suggesting that those opposing the pastoralists should reconsider their approach. His reference to some opponents already facing consequences has also attracted attention, although he did not specify who they were or what consequences he was referring to.
The remarks have consequently sparked debate about the future of Balaalo pastoralists in Northern Uganda and the need to address disagreements over land, grazing rights and community relations. The central challenge remains finding a peaceful solution that protects local communities, respects lawful land ownership and allows pastoralists to pursue their livelihoods without escalating tensions.
About the Author
