Kampala — WAGING WAR against the state is futile. It is irresponsible, senseless and barbaric most especially when the government in power is democratically elected. If avenues to change governments through the ballot exist then there is no reason to go to war.

Today, Uganda offers the basic tenet of democracy, rule of law and respect of human rights. So any group that chooses to fight government has absolutely no just cause. It is wise to abandon military adventurism and return to the civil fold as UNRF II has done.

The signing of the peace agreement between the government and UNRF II rebel early this week is great. It shows that the rebels appreciate the absurdity of war and its infectiveness as a means for political change. On the other hand it also shows that government can explore peacefully means to resolve conflicts. Above all it can be trusted. This is a stabilising equation needed in conflict resolution.

Next should be Joseph Kony and his Lords Resistance Army (LRA) rebels giving up fighting and settling down. LRA should choose peace not war. The Amnesty law provides an opportunity to surrender and be resettled.

LRA should emulate UNRF II. Fighting is not a solution to Uganda's problems. UNRF II can testify. For Uganda to deal with its political, economic and social challenges the first step is respect of the Constitution and each individual carrying his or her constitutional duty to the letter and spirit.

By signing the peace deal UNRF II is telling the world that Uganda government can be trusted. In fact the rebels are saying they have faith in the government. So LRA rebels should not hesitate. Trust the government; heed its call to end war to make Uganda a better place to live.