The battle over grazing lands is emerging as local authorities order the Deputy RDC of Kiryandongo to return his herds to Kiryandongo.
Jack Odur, the deputy RDC for Kiryandongo District has been accused of herding more than 1,000 heads of cattle from his home in Kiryandongo to Nwoya, without the consent of the authorities.
John Bosco Okullu, the LC3 Chairperson for Koch Goma Sub County, says that the Odur signed an agreement with Mzee Odong Adyera, allowing him to graze his cattle in the area.
Between 2010 and 2011, the RDC is alleged to have herded more than 1,000 heads of cattle into the sub-county, which has over time become a menace to the community.
Under the agreement, the Mzee Adyera received 4 million shillings, giving the RDC a two-year leeway to graze on the community land.
The LC 3 chairman however says that the agreement between the two parties was illegal because no member of the community was consulted.
During a meeting held early this week, Patrick Okello Oryema, the district chairperson said the district authorities met the family of Mzee Odong Adyera and Alizzar Latim, who are accused of penning illegal contracts.
During the meeting, it was agreed that the contract between the old man and the Jack Odur be annulled. The meeting also agreed that the RDC acted illegally by transporting his cattle into the sub-county without the consent of the Distr4ict Veterinary officer.
The Kiryandongo Deputy RDC has been given a 14-day ultimatum to return the cattle to Kiryandongo.
