Gulu Deputy RDC James Cosmas Okidi Intervened to Prevent Mob Justice Over Witchcraft Claims
By Our Reporter
GULU — The office of the Gulu Resident District Commissioner (RDC) has intervened to prevent mob justice in Dwere Village, Cwero Parish, Paicho Sub-county, following accusations of witchcraft against a local resident.
The long-standing misunderstanding involved residents of Dwere Village and a 34-year-old man identified as Odong Junior Jenaro, who was accused of witchcraft and misconduct.
Locals accused Odong of cutting hair from one side of a neighbour’s child’s head, gathering children, taking their photographs, moving with eggs in his pockets and other behaviour they linked to witchcraft. Residents claimed that following the incidents, some children fell sick while others fled their homes.
The situation escalated when community members convened a meeting to vote on expelling the man accused of bringing calamity to the area. Odong reportedly garnered 50 votes against him.
Following a tip-off, the Deputy RDC, Cosmas James Okidi, convened a security meeting in the village to establish the facts and calm tensions.
“We condemn acts of witchcraft but it is not in the laws,” Okidi said. “Don’t take the law into your hands. Report any act of human rights violation to the police, while cultural leaders can also handle their part without exposing individuals.”
Okidi cautioned residents against involving children in community conflicts.
“Children are innocent, therefore we must desist from involving our children in conflicts of society or elders,” he said.
He said security personnel would conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and that those found culpable would be brought to book.
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