Hon. Kenneth Okot Of Kilak North Condemns “Unlawful Criminal Gang” Violence in Gulu During Bobi Wine Campaign
By our reporter in Gulu
GULU, UGANDA – December 7, 2025: Independent parliamentary candidate for Kilak North county, Hon. Okot Kenneth, has launched a scathing condemnation of what he described as “organized criminal violence” unleashed during opposition leader Bobi Wine’s campaign rally in Gulu City yesterday.
In a strongly worded statement released on Sunday morning, Hon. Okot denounced the use of what he called “Aguu,” a local term referring to alleged youth gangs, to intimidate, assault, and loot in the heart of Gulu City. The events unfolded Saturday evening as thousands gathered to welcome National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine.
“I strongly condemn, in the clearest terms possible, the reckless and unlawful use of criminal gangs, commonly known as Aguu, to terrorize the people of Gulu City,” Hon. Okot declared. “The beating of innocent citizens, the looting of shops, the destruction of livelihoods, and the injuring of peaceful Ugandans is not only unacceptable—it is a direct assault on the dignity and safety of our people.”
Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes near Gulu Main Market and along Liberation Avenue, where groups of young men allegedly linked to political factions attacked civilians and businesses, causing panic and forcing many to flee. Local shop owners say they suffered significant financial losses, with several storefronts vandalized and goods looted.
According to Hon. Okot, the violence was not spontaneous but is suspected to have been“planned, coordinated, and executed under the watch of some leaders who should have protected the public instead of permitting violence.” He pointed fingers at both political figures accusing them of enabling or turning a blind eye to the attacks.
“This level of impunity cannot be allowed to take root in our society,” he warned. “Injustice on anybody is injustice on all of us. When one citizen is harmed, the entire community feels the wound. When the rights of one person is trampled, none of us is safe.”
Calling for urgent intervention, Hon. Okot demanded a comprehensive investigation by the Inspector General of Police and the Uganda Human Rights Commission. He urged authorities to bring to justice not only those who physically carried out the violence but also “those who directed, facilitated, or tolerated these criminal acts”—including some high ranking element in Gulu.
“Uganda deserves politics of ideas, not politics of violence,” he emphasized. “Gulu deserves peace, not fear. Our people deserve leaders who protect them, not gangs that harm them.”
As a prospective Member of Parliament for Kilak North in the 2026–2031 legislative term, Hon. Okot positioned himself as a voice for justice and accountability. He reaffirmed his commitment to a political process grounded in peace, civic protection, and democratic integrity.
“I stand firmly with all victims and families affected by this violence,” he said. “I reaffirm my commitment to justice, fairness, and the protection of every citizen—regardless of their political affiliation.” Stated Okot.
The incidents in Gulu come amid rising political tensions across northern Uganda as the 2026 general elections approach. Civil society organizations have expressed alarm over increasing reports of political violence and intimidation, particularly in regions historically affected by conflict.
Police are yet to release an official statement on the Gulu attacks.Attempt by our news team in Gulu to talk to ASP David Ongom Mudong was futile by press time since he did not pick our repeated phone calls.
For now, Hon. Okot’s message resonates with a growing chorus of citizens demanding that accountability must prevail.”
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