West Nile, Uganda — Members of Parliament from the West Nile region under their umbrella body, the West Nile Parliamentary Caucus, have announced plans to stage a peaceful demonstration in protest against the deplorable state of the Nebbi-Paida-Zombo via Vurra road.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, the Caucus Vice Chairperson, Dr. George Boka, expressed deep frustration over the continued neglect of the key road artery, despite repeated promises under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government.
"The Nebbi-Paida-Vurra road has been part of the NRM manifesto for the past 20 years, yet nothing tangible has been done. Our people deserve better infrastructure to facilitate trade, movement, and access to essential services," Dr. Boka said.
The road, which connects several important towns and borders the Democratic Republic of Congo, has remained in a poor state, making transport difficult and slowing down economic activity in the region. According to the legislators, the road's condition has worsened over the years, affecting businesses, healthcare delivery, and education access.
Dr. Boka noted that the peaceful demonstration is aimed at drawing urgent attention from the Ministry of Works and Transport and the executive arm of government to prioritize the road's rehabilitation.
Other MPs echoed similar concerns, emphasizing that while West Nile has remained loyal to the ruling party, the region continues to lag behind in infrastructural development compared to other parts of the country.
"We are tired of empty promises. This road is not just for West Nile; it is a strategic national and international route. It must be given the attention it deserves," one of the MPs remarked.
The caucus has called on residents, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to join the peaceful demonstration, which is scheduled to take place in the coming weeks. Details regarding the exact date and route of the demonstration will be communicated soon.
The legislators insist that unless immediate steps are taken to rehabilitate the Nebbi-Paida-Zombo-Vurra road, further actions including more demonstrations will be considered.
