Condemnation of military attack on civilians by Gordon Koang, Koch County Commissioner in Rupnor, Gandor and Guät Payam of Leer County

Press Statement,

By Luk Chap Kai Dhuor.

Dok Community Association in Uganda ,

Feb 18, 2022 — We have learned with regret the wave of military campaigns launched in Leer by the government forces under the command of Gordon Koang, Koch county’s commissioner. 

Following three days (14th -16th ) full scale army attack in Rupnor, Guɛny, Padeah and Luäl and Böth,  today, 17th Feb 2022, the army forces under the command of Koang have yet again deliver another horrific attack in Guät Payam, Kuor, Wangchen, Wutier and Lɛ̈ɛ̈k burning down houses, raiding livestock, destroying properties, killing and displacing innocent and helpless civilians.

This barbaric act on people, who are already suffering from devastating floods, is not an isolated incident but a continuity of 2015’s pattern of systemic flagrant state and corporate violence against people of Leer by Koang of Koch County. 

We strongly condemn this barbaric act and call on the authorities in Leer to ensure the safety and security of our people from hostile forces. 

We appeal to the transitional authorities to bring to an end the hostilities, withdraw army forces from the occupied civilian areas and accord justice to the victims and account the perpetrators for their criminal behaviors.

We call on the CTSAM and other peace grantors to initiate an independent investigation into the matter and ensure all parties adhere to the peace agreement, rule of law and respect for human rights. 

Finally, we send our heartfelt condolences to the family members who have lost loved ones and hope that God gives you the peace and strength you seek to overcome this tragedy.

Signed by 

Luk Chap Kai Dhuor.

Chairperson, Dok Community in Uganda