By Ezrah Kashumbusha.
GULU, April 08, 2024 | At the High Court in Gulu, Justice Philip Odoki, has dismissed an application filed by Mr. Otee Leonard seeking to overturn President Museveni’s executive order directing the eviction of cattle keepers, commonly known as Balalo, from the Northern region of Uganda.
The court’s decision came as a result of Mr. Otee’s failure to follow up on the matter he petitioned in court back in February 2023. Justice Odoki stated that the applicant had not complied with the court’s directive to file written submissions, with no explanation offered for the noncompliance.
“The applicant has since failed to file any written submissions as directed by the Court and no explanation was offered for the noncompliance with the Court directive. This application is accordingly dismissed under order 17 rule 4 of the Civil Procedure Rules with the costs to the respondent,” ruled Justice Odoki.
Mr. Otee’s application, brought by notice of motion, sought several declarations and orders, including a request to prohibit the state from expelling Balalo from Northern Uganda. However, the court emphasized that Mr. Otee, being an advocate and self-represented, had been given ample opportunity to present his case.
On the 19th of May 2023, President Museveni issued Executive Order No.3 of 2023, banning cattle keeping in Northern Uganda. The order cited disrespect by Balalo, who allowed their animals to graze in people’s gardens, causing food insecurity in the region.
Despite Mr. Otee’s argument that Balalo are citizens of Uganda with the right to reside in any part of the country, the court upheld the decision, emphasizing the importance of adherence to legal procedures.
