Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Gulu (Fides Service). “This is a highly positive fact which could mark a turning point in the conflict” a local Church source in Gulu (Northern Uganda) told Fides with regard to the surrender of Sam Kolo, chief negotiator for the Lord’s resistance Army (LRA).
When LRA head of negotiations Kolo said he had decided to surrender he was attacked by his companions and had to call on the army which came to his rescue at Kitgum. According to Ugandan sources Kolo decided to surrender because he felt his life was in danger after an argument with deputy LRA leader Vincent Otti.
“There is a split in the guerrilla movement which has terrorised civilians in northern Uganda for years” say Fides sources who fear the situation may precipitate: “There is a heated argument between LRA members who want to surrender and their leader Joseph Kony little inclined to hand over his weapons. Indeed Kony is trying to eliminate those who want to surrender. Kolo was lucky that the army came to his rescue. It is feared that the hard wing of the LRA may use violent means to sabotage negotiations on the part of rebels ready to surrender to the government”.
“All eyes are on LRA Vincent Otti. If he were to surrender than Kony would be on his own and it is very likely that the conflict would come to an end” the sources told Fides. “To rebels who surrender the government is offering immunity and money. It is certainly immoral to offer a reward to men guilty of massacring innocent civilians, but it could be the only way to prevent more bloodshed and restore peace”. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 17/2/2005 righe 26 parole 326)
