{UAH} MAKENGA COULD HAVE SURRENDERED DUE TO POOR HEALTH

"Although he has no ICC arrest warrant hanging over his head, the UN Security Council imposed a travel ban and asset freeze on him last year, accusing him of being responsible for the "killing and maiming, sexual violence, abduction, and forced displacement" - a reference to the fact that some 800,000 people fled their homes during the 19-month rebellion.

The US also imposed sanctions on Col Makenga, alleging that he was responsible for "extensive atrocities", including the recruitment of child soldiers.

But as far as Col Makenga is concerned, he fought a legitimate war to promote the rights of the Tutsi ethnic minority.

Throughout this year, there have been rumours that he is in poor health - and his surrender may signal that he is unlikely to ever return to the battlefield.

In the Thinking Africa blog, Mr Mueller and Mr Vogel wrote that he did not look well when they met him.

"One observation was striking: Makenga seemed exhausted, leaning deep - almost crouching - into the chair, while his face and eyes remained vivid as if juxtaposed against his fatigue. His entourage surrounded us, and his mannerisms remained limited and slow," they said"

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Gwokto La'Kitgum

"Even a small dog can piss on a tall Building", Jim Hightower