UGANDA

new constitution. 313
NORTHERN CONFLICTS
In parallel to the move toward peace talks and an eventual peace accord, many UPDA
soldiers deserted, returning to their villages. Village populations grew as a result, leading
to unrest and the formation of splinter insurgent groups that operated under the bigger
umbrella of the UPDA but with their own identities. Such identities were reflected in
the groups’ activities and in the names they gave themselves; these included “Ci-lil” (Go
and spread the rumours [to NRA]), “Cel-ibong” (Shoot and charge/feel [the NRA soldiers
to see whether they are dead]) and “Agoyo-ayaro” (Smash [the NRA] completely).
While some of the members of these groups supported the Pece Peace Accord
with the NRA in 1988 and demobilised, others joined the so-called “Trinity Wars.” 314
58. Cilil splinter group insurgency (1986 - 1988)
Cilil (meaning “Go and spread the rumour to National Resistance Army that we are here
or have passed”) was one of the UPDA splinter groups that operated in the villages and
urban centres of Gulu and Kitgum, fighting NRA soldiers. Their operation in northern
313 Lamwaka, C. (2002) Flash back: The peace process in northern Uganda 1986 – 1990. Acholi Times
[Internet], Available from: < http://acholitimes.com/index.php/news/feature/212-flash-back-the-peaceprocess-in-northern-uganda-1986-1990>
[Accessed 9 July 2012].; Additional information based on
research conducted in Gulu District
314 Based on research conducted in Pader and Gulu Districts
143