Former royal guards of the Rwenzururu Kingdom in Kasese District, who were released months ago after facing charges including terrorism, murder, treason, and malicious damage, are urgently seeking psychosocial support. The 217 individuals endured a seven-year imprisonment, facing severe psychological distress, and reports indicate that at least five of them have suffered mental breakdowns.
The charges against them were filed in the aftermath of the November 2016 Buhikira Palace incident, where over 150 people were shot dead during a security force operation to disarm and disband suspected militants in the palace. Edwin Mumbere, the coordinator of the former royal guards, emphasized the need for specialized care for those who have tragically lost their minds due to the challenges they faced during their incarceration. He warned that without assistance, more individuals are at risk of experiencing mental health issues.
Mumbere highlighted the abject poverty facing many of these families and their inability to benefit from crucial government programs such as the Parish Development Model and Emyooga due to the lack of national identity cards. Many ex-royal guards had their identity cards confiscated or lost during their time in jail.
Former guard Alex Baluku, who lost his business and two pieces of land, stressed the difficulty of reintegrating into the community without proper documents. Jenifer Kabugho shared her experience of feeling inferior in her community and expressed hope in gaining vocational skills to uplift her mentally.
The Amnesty Commission is providing some relief to the former royal guards, with Chief Legal Officer Nathan Twinomugisha handing out certificates to 138 individuals. He acknowledged the need to support them in rebuilding their lives and offered assistance in obtaining critical medical attention for those in need. Introduction letters from the commission have proven useful in exempting individuals from certain school fees in government-aided schools.
