I Ferried Museveni on a Bicycle During the Liberation War, But He Has Forgotten Me, Says 82-Year-Old Veteran in Rubanda

Summary:

Bukokosi was recruited into the Liberation War by Joseph Bitwari, who was executed by a firing squad led by Lieutenant Colonel Ali Fadhul at Makenke Military Barracks in Mbarara District, following orders from then-President Idi Amin.

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RUBANDA: An 82-year-old man from Rubanda District, who once transported President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on a bicycle during the Liberation War, says he has been neglected by the government despite his past contributions.

James Bukokosi, a resident of Rutoga village in Nyarurambi ward, Rubanda Town Council, Rubanda West County, shares that he is now facing significant hardships and health challenges, even as the country commemorates the 39th NRM/A Liberation Day Anniversary.

He recounts how he ferried President Museveni on his bicycle to the Kyaka border in Isingiro District while crossing into Tanzania during the Liberation War. Bukokosi is also a former member of the Uganda Patriotic Movement (UPM), the defunct political party founded by President Museveni in 1980.

Bukokosi was recruited into the Liberation War by Joseph Bitwari, who was executed by a firing squad led by Lieutenant Colonel Ali Fadhul at Makenke Military Barracks in Mbarara District, following orders from then-President Idi Amin. Mzee Bukokosi played a critical role in the war by storing and distributing firearms among the liberators.

However, after the final distribution of firearms, Bukokosi kept three remaining weapons hidden. When Amin’s soldiers discovered his involvement in arming the liberators, they launched a manhunt for him.

Following Amin’s fall, Bukokosi sought in working at Bjordal Mines (Nyamuliro Mine) in Kabale. Despite his sacrifices, he now appeals to the government for support as a token of appreciation for his role in the Liberation War.

CUE IN BUKOKOSI…..ON PRESIDENT MUSEVENI……RR//

The Rubanda Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Eric Ssewandigi encouraged Mzee Bukokosi and others with similar experiences to document their contributions and seek verification through Local Council leaders and the District Internal Security Office for recommendation to the President.

CUE IN RDC SSEWANDIGI…..ON THE MAATER…….RR/ENG//