news 26 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Residents claim security forces show favoritism in Balaalo eviction
Locals in Apac District accuse security forces of a selective approach in the eviction of Balaalo herdsmen from Maruzi Ranch, alleging that cattle belonging to influential individuals are being spared. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/residents-accuse-security-forces-of-favouritism-in-balaalo-eviction-5571580
Residents surrounding Maruzi Ranch in Apac District have raised serious accusations against the security forces tasked with evicting Balaalo herdsmen. They claim the operation, a joint effort by the UPDF and the Apac District security committee, is not being applied equally.
Despite the removal of over 1,000 cattle, according to local leaders, residents report that some herds are still present within the ranch. Eyewitnesses have observed cattle moving from the ranch to access water in nearby communities, while local farmers are reportedly prevented from bringing their own animals to the same water sources.
Further complicating the situation, residents claim that stray cattle from the ranch are entering their gardens at night, causing damage. Concerns have also been raised about herdsmen allegedly hiding their cattle in privately-owned kraals within the community to evade the ongoing operation, with some suggesting payments are being made to kraal owners.
Local leaders have reportedly voiced these concerns to the district security committee. While acknowledging that some cattle belonging to “powerful people in government” may have been removed, they suggest that the operation might not be as comprehensive as initially portrayed.
However, Apac Deputy Resident District Commissioner, Richard Tabaro, has placed some of the blame on local leaders for not actively participating in the eviction process as agreed. He stated that village and sub-county chairpersons were expected to spearhead the exercise at the community level, with logistical support from the UPDF’s Division Commander, Maj Gen Keith Katungi.
Maruzi Ranch, spanning approximately 64 square miles, saw a significant portion allocated to Hillside Agricultural Investment Limited in 2018. However, a substantial area remains largely unused and continues to be a point of contention for both Balaalo and local herders. The allegations of selective enforcement persist as the security operation continues.