Lira City, Uganda – Bishop Professor Alfred Olwa’s recent letter calling for mediation in the Lango Cultural Leadership Dispute has generated mixed reactions within the Lango community.
The dispute, which involves the Lango Cultural Foundation (Ker Te Kwaro Lango) led by His Highness Mzee Yosam Odur Ebii and the Lango Cultural Institution (Tekwaro A’Lango) headed by Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune, has created rifts among stakeholders.
In a letter dated July 19, 2024, Bishop Olwa expressed the Lango Religious Leaders Forum’s (LARELEF) readiness to mediate the dispute.
He proposed a two-day mediation event on August 8-9, 2024, in Kampala, urging both parties to bring seven representatives, including key figures such as Amb. Dickson Ogwang-Okul and Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune.
However, Philips Ogile Jakayo, Local Council III of Abok Sub County, criticized the Bishop’s letter, claiming it was one-sided and uninformed about the current Lango Cultural leadership structure.
He advised Bishop Olwa to address the council of Owitong through the speaker, Willy Omodo Omodo, and suggested that he focus on his religious duties instead of cultural matters.
Robert Olet Egwea, a clan leader, also expressed concern over the letter, stating that it was misconceived and failed to address all parties adequately.
He criticized the inclusion of national leaders, such as the President and Chief Justice, as recipients and questioned the neutrality of the proposed mediators.
Egwea advised ignoring the mediation effort and awaiting a more transparent and inclusive communication.
The Lango community is now grappling with these issues as the dispute continues to escalate.
It remains to be seen whether Bishop Olwa’s attempt to mediate the conflict will lead to a peaceful resolution or further deepen divisions among stakeholders.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the upcoming meeting of the council of Owitong on July 26, where a response to Bishop Olwa’s letter is expected.