By Frank Nyakairu
Oct 10, 2003
KAMPALA – The army has said the Joseph Kony-led Lord’s Resistance Army rebels have suffered a split. The army, however, said the split might not be to its advantage.
Army spokesman Maj. Shaban Bantariza told The Monitor that the split, which stemmed from a disagreement between Mr Kony and his deputy Vincent Otti, has seen the two setting up camps in different areas.
“The loyalists of Kony have moved to Teso led by Tabuley while the loyalists of Otti have moved northward to Kitgum,” Bantariza said.
The army had a week ago claimed that Kony sacked his second-in-command Otti for having “led to the loss of most of [Kony's] men”.
But a man calling himself Sam Kolo of the LRA telephoned The Monitor immediately – dismissing the army’s claims as “wrong”.
“That is wrong information,” Kolo said.
“Vincent Otti has never been the commander of LRA,” he said. “Kony is the chairman of LRA/M Otti is the vice chairman,” the so-called Kolo said. “Charles Tabuley is the commander of the Jogo Division based in Soroti, Katakwi and Kaberamaido.”
The LRA, which has historically fought in northern Uganda, decided three months ago to expand its operations to three northeastern districts; Kaberamaido, Katakwi and Soroti.
The LRA has been fighting President Yoweri Museveni's government since 1988. Their campaign has been marked by brutality against the civilian population.
They strengthen their ranks through the abduction of young boys and girls.
© 2003 The Monitor Publications
