(Kampala) – Anthony Akol, Kilak North’s Member of Parliament, recently shared that he has received death threats from alleged supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) following a heated session in Uganda’s parliament. Akol, whose robust presence in the Assembly has earned him the moniker “Parliament’s Elephant,” expressed concerns for his safety and that of his family and community.
During Tuesday’s parliamentary proceedings, Akol claims to have received menacing messages that he believes are linked to NUP followers. According to Akol, the threats contained deeply personal and tribal insults targeting not only him but the broader Acholi community. He recounted that the messages accused him of aligning with President Museveni, suggesting a rift along tribal lines.
Table: Summary of Key Issues
Allegation
Details
Threats to Family
Messages allegedly aimed at Akol and his family.
Tribal Insults
Accusations against Acholi for supporting Museveni.
Community Concerns
Challenges in Acholi with land disputes and poverty.
Parliament Incident
Akol’s clash with Zaake, demanding respect and an apology.
Akol voiced frustration over the tribal tones in the messages, criticizing the stereotype that the Acholi community unconditionally supports the president. He was adamant in denying any political alignment with Museveni, emphasizing that the Acholi region has suffered significant socio-economic challenges under the current administration. Akol cited ongoing hardships such as poverty and land disputes, particularly with the Balalo pastoralists, who have stirred controversy in the Acholi subregion.
The MP urged an end to divisive tribal rhetoric, clarifying that his parliamentary conduct is not influenced by political affiliations, personal vendettas, or tribal biases. He expressed particular concern over allegations suggesting a split between Acholi and other ethnic groups, emphasizing his respect for the Baganda community and other ethnicities across Uganda.
The confrontation that sparked this incident took place on Tuesday when Akol and Mityana Municipality’s Francis Zaake had an altercation on the parliamentary floor. Akol, firm in his stance, has since called for an apology from Zaake, whom he accuses of disrespectful behavior. Akol described Zaake’s actions as offensive, pointing out that Zaake, who is much younger, displayed disrespectful conduct.
Akol highlighted the importance of cultural values in Uganda, especially in terms of respecting elders in public spaces. He expressed dismay at Zaake’s gestures during their argument, saying that such actions were not befitting of a parliamentary setting and were disrespectful by African cultural standards.
I’m told that this man was beaten before because of disrespecting people. I’m actually expecting an apology from him, given that he’s younger than me. He’s my children’s age. In the African setting, when an adult is seated you give that respect
