In a decision that has reignited debates on justice for war-torn communities in Uganda, the High Court in Lira has ordered the Attorney General to pay Shs 236 million in taxed costs to Betty Akello and John Francis Ongia.
The compensation stems from livestock losses suffered during the Lango sub-region insurgency.
The case, which dates back to 2011, was initiated by Akello and Sam Obua on behalf of 580 others. The victims alleged that government soldiers confiscated their livestock during the insurgency and failed to return it.
This, they argued, constituted a breach of the government’s constitutional obligation to safeguard citizens and their property.
In a landmark ruling on May 2, 2014, the court sided with Akello and her co-victims, awarding compensation for verified livestock losses.
Each victim was granted Shs 4 million in general damages, Shs 1 million in exemplary damages, and an annual interest of 25% on the total compensation starting from February 24, 2011, until full payment.
The case saw little progress after 2014, leaving victims uncertain. It wasn’t until 2015 that additional victims, including Ongia, successfully applied to be added as beneficiaries.
The Attorney General later contested the taxed costs awarded to the victims’ legal team, specifically disputing the instruction fee granted by the assistant registrar, Ssalaamu Godfrey Ngobi.
Justice George Okello delivered a decisive ruling, maintaining the taxed costs at Shs 236,127,000. This figure includes Shs 136,127,000 for miscellaneous items and Shs 100,000,000 as instruction fees.
The court rejected the inclusion of value-added tax (VAT) on the instruction fee due to the absence of a VAT certificate from the Uganda Revenue Authority.
Justice Okello exercised powers under section 68(1) of the Advocates Act Cap 295 to finalize the matter, stating that further re-taxation could result in endless delays. He emphasized that the plaintiffs were entitled to recover legal costs incurred in their prolonged battle for justice.
This ruling underscore the ongoing struggles of conflict-affected communities in Uganda to secure justice and compensation. The case highlights not only the financial burden placed on victims seeking redress but also the state’s responsibility to protect and compensate its citizens.
While the decision has been celebrated as a win for Akello, Ongia, and their co-victims, critics argue that the lengthy delays in justice reveal systemic inefficiencies. “It’s a bittersweet victory,” said one legal analyst. “Justice delayed is justice denied, and many of these victims have waited over a decade.”
The Attorney General is now tasked with ensuring timely payment of the awarded costs through M/s Bashasha & Co. Advocates.
This case could set a precedent for other victims of government failures to pursue legal redress. However, questions remain about whether the government will take further steps to address similar grievances across the country.
As Uganda continues to grapple with the legacy of its turbulent past, cases like this serve as a reminder of the importance of accountability and restitution.
For Akello, Ongia, and the hundreds of others who endured loss and hardship, this ruling is more than just financial compensation it’s a recognition of their resilience and a step toward healing.
