UNRF rebels camp in Arua district

MAJ Gen. Ali Bamuze, leader of the Uganda National Rescue Front II (UNRF II) and over 1,300 of his fighters have pitched camp at Biidi Biidi, 15km kilometres from Yumbe town after renouncing rebellion.Joseph Muhindo in Yumbe reports that the ex-rebels were welcomed by UPDF officers led by Lt. Gen Salim Saleh hours after he received Bamuze and four of his top commanders at Koka Guest House. The group, which had until 1998 waged war against the government, reiterated their commitment to peace. Bamuze, while introducing the group to Saleh, asked the Government to provide them with shelter, food, clothing and communication facilities to help them resettle. Saleh said Bamuze had also asked for immediate construction of boreholes for water supply in the vast dry Biidi Biidi area. The meeting was attended by UPDF officers including Brig. Kale Kaihura, the Chief Political Commissar and Military Assistant to the President.Bamuze is today scheduled to meet district leaders. It is unclear if the fighters wish to be absorbed into the UPDF. Saleh said he would deliver Bamuze’s requests to President Yoweri Museveni. Minister Zoe Bakoko Bakoru assured the group of security saying their return was a big step towards establishment of lasting peace in West Nile. The group has until Saturday been based in Rojo in Southern Sudan. Their return followed five-year negotiations with the President’s Office and the Aringa- Obongi Peace Initiative Committee chaired by Col. Nasur Izakuru.