December 17, 2008

Uganda takes decisive action

This past Sunday (December 14), the joint forces of Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sudan attacked Joseph Kony and the LRA's camps in the Garamba National Forest in the DRC. This action signaled the offical end to the ceasefire agreement that has lasted (unless you count Kony's countless attacks on villages in the DRC, Sudan and CAR...) for almost three years. The UPDF Commenced the attacks with an air raid that severely damaged the huts in Kony's main camp setting them on fire and sending the rebels fleeing into the jungle. When ground troops arrived to inspect the camps, however, they did not find any casualties. Troops did locate evidence of severe injuries and soldier presence leading up to the attacks though and speculate that the rebels may have been alerted to the attacks or were able to carry off wounded and dead rebels before the ground troops arrived. Currently, cut off from his food supplies and other resources, Kony may be in trouble. The UPDF is air dropping leaflets throughout the jungle in an effort to encourage the scattered troops to assemble at safe points so that they may avoid attack and be rescued. They have also set up an opportunity for Joseph Kony to travel to Ri-Kwangba in safety to sign the final peace deal (he has already failed to sign seven times). If he does not, then he will be hunted down until captured or killed.

Human rights groups are somewhat supportive of this action, but also warn that there is the possibility of injuring or killing child soldiers--many of whom were abducted and are being held against their will.

Uganda has vowed that the LRA will not be able to get back into Uganda and is ensuring that its citizens will remain safe. There has been no word yet from Invisible Children (nor do I expect any--there is a lot of time between now and next summer) about the possible impact on the teacher exchange for 2009. Right now our best bet is to hope for the safety of all involved as well as a speedy resolution to this 23-year crisis. I will keep you informed as the situation develops.

Best,
Matt