300 veterans in Kasese cry foul

They say the government does not support them financially.

More than 300 NRM cadres in Kasese District have accused the government of neglecting them.

Under their umbrella organisation, NRM/NRA Historical Supporters of Rwenzori Mountain, the members said the government had not given them any financial benefits for their participation in the liberation war.

At the recent Tarehe Sita celebrations in Kasese, President Museveni handed 55 Nalubale medals to war veterans in the Rwenzori and 36 to the district.

Kasese was the centre of action during the ADF insurgency between 1996 and 2005.

“After aiding the NRM/NRA in the struggle to gain power, losing lives and property, the government has not considered the people who helped it,” Mr Joshua Daaki, the group chairperson, said.

Mr Daaki said only 77 group members were awarded medals in Masaka but were not given money in appreciation for their contribution.
He said any person, who received a medal, was supposed to be given between Shs5m and Shs7m.

The group said they had tried to present their grievances, including meeting the President for a long time in vain.

When contacted for a comment, the deputy Resident District Commissioner, Mr Aminadabu Muhindo, denied the allegations, saying the members are supposed to be under the Katebwa Veterans Association, which the government recognises and is receiving funding.

“It is difficult for the President to go around the whole country and to every person’s home saying thank you for your contribution,” he said.
However, Mr Muhindo said the issue of the vereans was being handled.

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