Steven Ariong, Karamoja – Mr. Ambrose Byona, the Director of the newly established shs 1 trillion cement and clinker factory in Moroto, has joined others in mourning the death of the NRM National Vice Chairperson for Karamoja, Hon. Simon Peter Aleper. Byona described Aleper’s passing as a shock.
Mr. Aleper died instantly on Tuesday in a road accident near Iganga while driving himself from Moroto to Kampala.
Mr. Byona said the late Aleper was instrumental in ensuring the construction of the clinker and cement factory by West International Holding Limited, a subsidiary of China West Cement Limited (Stock Code: 2233.HK), a Hong Kong-listed company.
He expressed his grief, stating that Aleper’s passing was painful as he hadn’t yet witnessed the impact of the factory which is still under construction.
“I am heartbroken,” Byona said. “Mr. Aleper, along with others, played a crucial role in securing land for the factory and starting construction. It’s a real pity.”
Mr. Byona called upon the leaders and community of Karamoja to emulate the late leader’s desire for development in the region.
Many have praised the late Aleper as an outspoken leader who did not discriminate in matters of national importance.
Since news of the incident reached Moroto yesterday, many residents have been deeply affected. Business has slowed down, with some traders struggling to even open their shops.
Joseph Lokut, a resident, said Mr. Aleper’s legacy was unmatched.
He credited Aleper’s outspokenness for the tarmacking of the Moroto-Soroti road. “If it weren’t for the late leader’s advocacy,” Lokut said, “the road wouldn’t have been worked on. I recall when he and other MPs from Karamoja threatened to withdraw their support for the ruling party due to the poor state of the region’s roads. That’s what prompted the government to take swift action.”
