TJCR DONE

The Truth Justice and Reconciliation Commission has concluded its statement taking exercise in Mt Elgon district.

While officially closing the exercise on Monday, TJRC Vice Chairperson, Tecla Namachanja Wanjala said they had recorded 1,500 statements and received 20 memoranda from victims of injustices perpetrated in the district

"The Commission has statements and memoranda from various groups including women, youth, ex-combatants, elders, persons with disabilities, remandees and area professionals," Ms Wanjala said , adding that "the memoranda detail the groups' perspective of human rights abuses, historical injustices in Mt Elgon and recommended solutions."

She assured the residents that their statements and memoranda were in safe hands and would be recorded for posterity.

"You have given us very painful, tragic and traumatising stories and reports on the experiences that you have been through. The Commission will hold its first hearing in Mt Elgon and I urge you therefore to guard the truth justice and reconciliation process to the end," Ms Wanjala said.

Speaking at the same event, Commissioner Dr. Tom Ojienda said theCommission will review and investigate the statements which he said will form the basis of the Commission's hearing in Mt Elgon. " The important achievement in this exercise is that residents in the area have begun to speak of their experiences and to dialogue with each other.," Dr. Ojienda said.

The area District Officer Mr. Gabriel Othin said the administration was happy with the manner in which the exercise was undertaken.

He said the residents expectations were high and were looking forward to a lasting solution that would end the cycle of conflict in the area.

One of the residents Ms. Janerose Wandiena commended the Commission for getting right to the grassroots and engaging the women who were the custodians of the truth.

" We must find a way to reconcile with each other, despite our suffering . For me the healing has begun with the recording of my statement and articulation my pain. This has helped me to consider forgiveness," Ms. Wandiena she said.

Former Magistrate Mr. Hesbon Kimkung' warned against the use of force to achieve one's interests.

"We need to learn to co-exists as different communities, live according to the rule of law with faith in God and we shall find a solution that is suitable for all, " Mr Kimkung' said.

Mr Richard Wasilwa from Cheskakis appreciated the TJRC saying no other Commission would come forward to reconcile the residents of the district.

"The conflict in this area is caused by politicking . It starts with politics, campaigning and after the voting ends we live together and co-exist. I urge the Commission to ensure that this problem is resolved once and for all," Mr Wasilwa, a former councillor said.

Bramwell Otwani from Cheptais urged the government to issue title deeds to residents as a means to ending the impunity of community displacement .

The commission began taking statements last month.

The exercise that was originally meant to last a fortnight but was extended by one week following numerous requests from victims.