In a shocking development, preliminary investigations into the deadly attack on Lhubiriha Secondary School in Kasese, Uganda, which claimed the lives of 41 students, have revealed a link to a school ownership dispute rather than the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebel group.
The revelation was made by Janet Kataaha Museveni, Uganda's Minister of Education and Sports, during a press briefing. According to the First Lady, reports indicate that certain factions within Kasese were embroiled in a conflict over the control of Lhubiriha Secondary School.
The privately-owned institution was allegedly built by an NGO led by a Canadian individual named Peter Hunter, who operates in both Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
"There has been an ongoing conflict between groups seeking to take over the school and the NGO responsible for its construction. Although the details are still unclear, this information has emerged from our initial findings," Minister Museveni explained.
To gain firsthand knowledge of the situation, Minister Museveni expressed her intention to visit the affected area and conduct an on-site assessment. She expressed her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and assured parents across the country that efforts were underway to ensure the safety of all children.
While the investigation is ongoing, Minister Museveni hinted at the possibility that the terrorist group may have been manipulated by those involved in the school ownership dispute. She emphasized that further information would be revealed as the government continues to delve into the matter and gather concrete evidence.
Major General Dick Olum, the commander of the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) mountain division, confirmed that 41 people, predominantly students, lost their lives during the attack. Gunmen, initially suspected to be ADF rebels, targeted the school in Mpondwe, situated near the border with the DRC. Several students were also abducted during the tragic incident.
The attack on Lhubiriha Secondary School occurred on the anniversary of a previous assault by the ADF on Uganda Technical College, Kichwamba, in 1998. That attack resulted in the loss of 80 lives and the abduction of 100 individuals.
While security agencies in the Rwenzori Sub-region had heightened their vigilance due to increased ADF activity along the border, the recent incident at Mpondwe has redirected attention to the ownership wrangles surrounding the school.
As the investigation progresses, the government, in collaboration with security agencies, is determined to uncover the truth behind the attack and ensure that justice is served. The affected families have received support from the president to facilitate funeral arrangements and cope with this devastating time.
Ugandans are urged to remain vigilant, and Minister Museveni called upon the nation to pray for the affected families and the Kasese community as they navigate through this tragedy. Further updates and information will be shared with the public once the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon. John Chryestom Muyingo, returns from the region.
