Five Balokole Members Arrested For Calling 2024 Census ‘Satanic’

Five individuals from the Peace of Trumpet Ministry Uganda, a Balokole religious sect based in Lira, have been taken into custody. They are accused of disrupting the ongoing National Population and Housing Census. The suspects, namely Daniel Obangakene (30), Jesse Ogenrwot (20), Abel Emmanuel (27), Emmanuel Atekirwot (26), and Daniel Poyopira (19), were apprehended following allegations of preaching against the census. They cautioned that participation in the census might jeopardize one’s entry into the kingdom of God.

David Kennedy Odongo, the Alebtong LC5 chairman, confirmed the arrests, citing sabotage of the census exercise that commenced on Friday. He indicated that more arrests are anticipated in relation to the disruption of the program.

The North Kyoga regional police spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, revealed that the suspects are facing charges of common nuisance. The suspects, who were discovered cycling around villages in Alebtong District on Thursday, had also advised parents against immunizing their children against deadly diseases. Furthermore, they discouraged people from registering for National Identification Cards, labeling such government programs as satanic.

The police spokesperson stated that witness statements have been collected, and exhibits including a speaker, microphone, and bicycle have been secured. The case file is prepared for submission to the Resident State Attorney for review and legal advice.

Prior to these events, the Lango Paramount Chief-elect, Eng Dr Michael Moses Odongo Okune, had urged all his subjects to participate in the census. He emphasized the importance of accurate data for regional planning and resource allocation.

Several leaders from the Lango sub-region, including Dr Samuel Opio Acuti, the Member of Parliament for Kole North in Kole District, expressed their intention to participate in the census.