A group of over 300 Balaalo pastoralists has taken legal action against the Ugandan government, challenging what they describe as unjust evictions from northern Uganda. The group filed a petition in the Civil Division of the High Court in Kampala, seeking to block the enforcement of a presidential directive ordering their removal from the region.
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The contested directive—Executive Order No. 3 of 2023—was issued by President Yoweri Museveni to address land conflicts in northern Uganda. It targets pastoralists accused of occupying land illegally, failing to fence their farms, and harming local livelihoods. The order, re-enforced in 2025, has sparked tensions and legal backlash, particularly from the Balaalo community.
The petitioners, represented by Mwesigwa Rukutana and Company Advocates, argue that the eviction deadline, reportedly issued without proper consultation or legal procedures, violates their constitutional rights. They claim to have complied with land use requirements, invested in infrastructure, and coexisted peacefully with local communities.
According to court filings, the eviction poses a threat to both their livelihoods and the broader economy, with over 400,000 cattle at risk and potential disruption to the livestock trade. The pastoralists also allege ethnic discrimination, stating that similar groups have not faced such actions.
They are now seeking an injunction to halt the evictions until the court can conduct a judicial review to determine the legality and fairness of the enforcement measures. The Attorney General is named as the respondent, but the court has yet to schedule a hearing.
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