The kidnappers held her captive for nearly three weeks, demanding up to $1 million before accepting about $200,000 (approximately UGX 700 million). During her captivity, they cut off two of her fingers and sent them alongside a video of her pleading for help to pressure her family into paying the ransom.
Akena referred to historical statements by President Museveni acknowledging the destruction of food supplies and the destitution of about 2.7 million people during that period. He argued that the loss of cattle deprived communities of daily nutrition, household income, school fees, draft power, and soil fertility, leaving effects that continue to be felt today.
“He distanced himself from curtailing religious institutions being funded and was silent about the political parties and cultural institutions, which remain victims of the proposed protection of sovereignty bill 2026. Which means his fight is against political parties and cultural groups,” Lulume said.
The National Coffee (Amendment) Bill 2024, which proposes the dissolution of UCDA after 32 years of operation, has sparked heated debate and opposition from various sections of the public and some Members of Parliament. Despite the backlash, Parliament voted to advance the bill, citing the need for greater efficiency and alignment with MAAIF’s broader agricultural mandate.
Lumu was granted leave from Parliament to review the bill, a requirement in the House rules. This was during the regional plenary sittings held in Gulu city on August 29, 2024.
During the parliamentary session on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, the August House turned into a boxing ring and tempers flared when MPs Zaake and Akol clashed over procedural issues, leading to a physical altercation and suspension of 12 MPs.
The rollout of E-IDs is expected to improve security, streamline access to basic services, and expand the scope of financial inclusion. By linking national IDs to a secure digital platform, the government aims to eliminate the use of physical IDs, which are prone to theft. This will provide citizens with protection from exploitation in the form of loan sharks.