Ma'di Leaders Reverse Boycott, Confirm Attendance at Yumbe Peace Celebration

Yumbe, Uganda – April 11, 2025

In a dramatic turn of events, leaders from the Ma'di community have confirmed their participation in the upcoming Peace Celebration scheduled for this Saturday in Yumbe district, reversing their earlier decision to boycott the event over unresolved grievances related to killings and land conflicts.

Initially, community representatives vehemently objected to pleas made by the 2nd Deputy Prime Minister, Gen. Moses Ali, to attend the peace event.

 They accused Gen. Ali and Ambassador Philip Idro of exploiting the name of Gen. Salim Saleh in an attempt to coerce the Ma'di population into participating. 

The community issued stern warnings to political and cultural leaders, cautioning them against traveling to Yumbe without government action on the long-standing conflict.

However, in a statement released today, the Paramount Chief of Madi Chiefdom, His Highness Suru Baru Simon, announced a shift in position, stating that Ma'di leaders will now attend the event, which is expected to be presided over by President Yoweri Museveni.

"The leadership has made this decision in light of confirmed reports that the President will visit Adjumani in the first week of May. We view this as an opportunity to engage the highest office in resolving our concerns," said His Highness Suru Baru Simon.

The reversal has drawn mixed reactions within the Ma'di community, with some members still voicing dissatisfaction over what they see as a premature gesture of reconciliation. However, leaders insist their presence at the peace celebration is strategic and aimed at opening direct dialogue with the President and top government officials.

The Peace Celebration in Yumbe comes at a time of heightened tensions in the West Nile region, particularly between the Ma'di and neighboring communities. Observers say the attendance of the Ma'di leadership could be a significant step toward healing and national cohesion—if backed by genuine action from the state.President Museveni’s anticipated presence at the Yumbe event and the upcoming visit to Adjumani will be closely watched as key moments for conflict resolution in the region.