National tragedy: security failures in Kasese attack demand critical review 

The recent attack on Mpondwe Lhubiriha SS (formerly Peter Hunter SS) in Bwera, Kasese district, resulting in the merciless killing of 47 innocent schoolchildren and the abduction of others, is an unimaginable national disaster.

The proximity of security forces, including the army and police, to the attacked school adds another layer of concern to this tragedy. The failure to neutralize the attackers alleged to belong to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) highlights serious shortcomings in Uganda’s military operation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), codenamed Shujaa.

Furthermore, it casts doubt on the competency of the security services, particularly the intelligence apparatus responsible for detecting and preventing such heinous acts.

The revelation made by Maj Gen Dick Olum, the commander of the joint Uganda/DRC Shujaa mission, that the rebels were present in the vicinity for two days before the attack raises questions about the effectiveness of intelligence gathering.

How was it possible that these rebels operated undetected for such an extended period in an area where security forces were purportedly stationed and forewarned? The intelligence services’ failure to intercept or apprehend the rebels during their stay near the school is deeply alarming and raises serious doubts about the former’s capabilities.

The tragedy in Kasese highlights inherent flaws in Uganda’s decision to send troops to the DRC in pursuit of ADF rebels. While operation Shujaa aimed to eliminate the rebel presence in the neighbouring country, it appears to have diverted attention and resources from addressing internal security challenges.

The inability to prevent the attack in Kasese underscores the misguided priorities and the potential negligence of the security services.

A critical examination of the decision to conduct operations abroad at the expense of addressing domestic security concerns is essential to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The failure to capture or eliminate any of the attackers not only raises questions about the competency of the intelligence services but also calls into question the overall effectiveness of Uganda’s security services.

The fact that armed rebels were able to infiltrate a school, carry out a gruesome act, and escape without consequence is a testament to the inadequacy of our security forces. It is imperative to investigate whether there were lapses in coordination, communication, or response decisions.

President Yoweri Museveni’s remarks on the cowardly acts of the ADF rebels reflect the gravity of the situation. However, it is vital that the government and military leadership move beyond mere condemnations and take concrete actions to prevent future attacks.

This includes a thorough review of security strategies, an overhaul of intelligence-gathering mechanisms, and a focus on enhancing the capabilities of our security forces to protect innocent civilians within Uganda’s borders.

Only through a comprehensive and rigorous approach to intelligence gathering, coordination and response can we hope to prevent such heinous acts and protect the lives of our citizens.