We are deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic and senseless killing of the Acting District Health Officer (DHO) for Arua, Mr. Paul Bishop Drileba, on Saturday, November 23, 2024, following a land dispute at Ajia Sub-county in Arua District. This brutal act of mob justice is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address extrajudicial actions that continue to claim innocent lives in our communities.

We strongly condemn this heinous act and call upon law enforcement authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. Mob justice is a violation of fundamental human rights and a threat to the rule of law. No grievance, disagreement, or dispute should justify such unlawful and inhumane acts.

We urge immediate interventions from government authorities, civil society organisations, and community leaders to intensify sensitisation efforts against mob justice. There is a critical need for civic education to promote legal dispute-resolution mechanisms and strengthen public trust in the justice system.

As we mourn the loss of Mr. Drileba, we reaffirm our commitment to ending mob justice and other human rights abuses. We stand in solidarity with his family, colleagues, and the entire Arua community during this painful time.

We call on all Ugandans to reject violence and uphold justice, dignity, and respect for human rights. Together, we must promote a culture where disputes are resolved through lawful means, ensuring peace and security for all.

#EndMobJustice #JusticeForDrileba #HumanRightsForAll

For media inquiries, please contact:

zootainitiativefordevelopment@gmail.com

Zoota Initiative for Development

Arua, Uganda