Documenting a dark scene from childhood

Lillian Butele Kelle pours out her heart about her childhood tragedy.

In the book, I know now…It was All For Good, Lillian Butele Kelle pours out her heart. Like in the book, during the launch of her book ( on February 8), during a question and answer interview, she spoke of being molested at the tender age of 12. When she did, Kelle momentarily broke down in tears, the audience too became emotional. A few females shed a tear or two. Kelle finalised by reading an excerpt from her book before inviting the Guest Speaker: Dr Miria Matembe.

In her speech, Kelle said she had forgiven the man who molested her. Taking it from there, Matembe affirmed in her speech that, “You forgive them but disarm them.” To this statement, the audience cheered.

The turnout was good and the conference hall was almost full an hour after the launch officially started. There was an auction led by Patrick Bitature. Nearly everyone in the audience parted with something and Bitature promised to double the total collection. Shs 5.5 million was raised from the auction (pledges inclusive) bringing the total amount to Shs 11 million after Bitature’s promise. Kelle’s former employer, the man who gave her the first job bought the book at Shs 2 million.

Also in attendance were former minister for Karamoja affairs Anthony Butele, Kelle’s father and his wife. Other honoured guests included, her economics teacher, and her primary teachers. There was also her literature teacher whom she thanked for instilling in her the ability to write. The audience included many of Kelle’s former classmates who turned up to cheer her.

editorial@ug.nationmedia.com