Lira City, Uganda – In a bold move that has sent ripples across Lira City and beyond, Sarah Awor Angweri has tendered her resignation as Deputy Minister for Culture and Heritage in the Lango Cultural Foundation.
Her decision, announced today, 6th December 2024, just weeks after her appointment by His Highness Won Nyaci Yosam Odur Ebii, underscores the intensifying political contest for Lira City Woman Member of Parliament seat in 2026.
Awor, currently, the Lira City Female Workers Representative cited “public demand” and a desire to focus on her political ambitions as the primary reasons for her resignation.
She also expressed concerns about internal divisions within the Lango Cultural Foundation, stating that some members of the cabinet are her political opponents, creating potential conflicts of interest.
In her resignation letter, Awor reiterated her commitment to her slogan, “Together We Can,” emphasizing that unity is paramount.
> “I can not be part of what divides Lango. We must strive for unity. My focus is on promoting peace and development for our people,” Awor stated.
Speaking at a press conference at Lira Valley Resort Hotel, Awor accused some members of the cultural cabinet of engaging in blackmail and divisive politics.
She alleged that Moses Opio Obaa, a Deputy Minister of Peace & Security in the Foundation, was working under the influence of her political rival, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, the current Minister for Health and Lira City Woman MP.
Awor maintained that her resignation was voluntary and in good faith, adding:
> “You can not force a horse to drink water, yet that water is impure. I resigned to avoid being part of a faction that perpetuates division in Lango.”
Awor’s resignation is widely seen as a strategic move to focus on her campaign for the Lira City Woman MP seat.
Her candidacy has already drawn significant attention, with supporters praising her as a symbol of youthful leadership and a champion of unity and development.
> “I am not intimidated by anyone vying for this position. The Ugandan Constitution grants me the right to contest, and I will not let my supporters down,” she declared at her campaign launch last month.
Awor pledged to empower the youth, foster unity, and advocate for equitable opportunities for the younger generation.
She also took aim at the current leadership, accusing some government ministers of monopolizing resources and blocking opportunities for emerging leaders.
Awor’s resignation has intensified political dynamics in Lira City, with NRM cadres rallying behind Dr. Aceng, who is seen as a strong contender for re-election.
At a recent meeting at Lira Hotel early this month, a section of NRM Cadres described Dr. Aceng as a unifying figure with a transformative track record.
However, Awor remains undeterred. She vowed to contest in the NRM primaries and, if necessary, run as an independent candidate to ensure her vision for the city is realized.
> “I am ready to face any challenge. The people of Lira City deserve vibrant and inclusive leadership,” she said.
The Lango Cultural Foundation confirmed receipt of Awor’s resignation, in a letter addressed to Won Nyaci Mzee Yosam Odur Ebii, and delivered to Prime Minister, Frederick Ogwal Oyee through their Public Relations Officer (PRO) Jacob Ocen, While the Foundation has yet to issue an official statement.
Awor’s departure has raised questions about the intersection of cultural and political roles in Lango, with many calling for a renewed focus on unity and development.
Awor’s exit from the cultural cabinet marks a significant shift in Lango’s political landscape. Her candidacy, alongside rumoured interest from Minister Betty Amongi Akena, signals a generational and ideological shift in the region’s leadership.
As the race for the Lira City Woman MP seat heats up, Awor’s message of unity and youth empowerment resonates with many, particularly the younger generation.
In her resignation letter, Awor concluded with a heartfelt prayer for Lango’s unity and progress:
> “May God bless Lango, my tribe, and keep us united!”
With her sights set firmly on 2026, Sarah Awor Angweri has made it clear that her mission is not just to lead but to inspire and unite the people of Lango.
The stage is set for a transformative election season, and all eyes are on Lira City.
