46 Former LRA Returnees to Undergo Acholi Cultural Cleansing Rites in Uganda

Forty-six former Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) returnees, comprising 23 adults and 23 children, have arrived in Gulu, Uganda, after being repatriated from South Sudan. The group, which included individuals who had trekked from Darfur before being airlifted, landed at Gulu Airfield and were met by security officials and local leaders.

To aid their reintegration, the returnees will participate in traditional Acholi cultural cleansing rituals. Martin Okumu, Deputy Prime Minister of Ker Kwaro Acholi, explained that these ceremonies are designed to help the returnees reconnect with their families and communities after enduring hardships and violence. The rituals signify purification and reconciliation, marking a symbolic step toward healing.

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The rebels went through hardships and many atrocities. This process is meant to cleanse them before they finally rejoin their families and communities.

Key ceremonies include "Nyono Tong Gweno," where returnees step on an egg, and "Cubo Lakareke," involving a goat held behind the returnee before entering a homestead. These acts symbolize cleansing and purification after years of suffering. Okumu noted that many former rebels were abducted as children and forced into the LRA insurgency led by Joseph Kony.

Among the returnees are five males from the Democratic Republic of Congo and one female from the Central African Republic. The Ugandan government plans to document them, grant amnesty, and provide rehabilitation support. Maj. Gen. Richard Owili Otto urged communities to accept the returnees, emphasizing that many were forced into rebellion. He also indicated that 20 more groups of LRA defectors are expected, with ongoing engagements with their leadership.

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China will handle this case in accordance with the law.