Entebbe, Uganda | His Royal Highness Dr. Eng. Moses Michael Odongo Okune, the Paramount Chief (Won Nyaci) of the Lango, is set to meet President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Friday, May 30, 2025, at State House, Entebbe, to address growing concerns over the delayed livestock compensation programme for communities in northern and eastern Uganda.
The meeting, confirmed in an official letter signed by Vice President Maj (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, comes amid rising frustration over the government’s handling of the programme, which was launched on March 26, 2022, at Soroti University to compensate individuals who lost cattle and property during years of conflict.
According to the Vice President, the President is aware of the implementation challenges and is determined to engage stakeholders directly to find lasting solutions.
She emphasized that the government remains committed to ensuring that no region is left behind as the country moves toward middle-income status, noting that various livelihood programs such as NAADS, OWC, PDM, and EMYOOGA are part of the broader recovery strategy.
HRH Dr. Eng. Odongo Okune is expected to represent the voices of the Lango people during the meeting.
Sources within the Lango Cultural Institution revealed that the Paramount Chief intends to advocate for transparency, accountability, and a more people-centered approach to compensation.
He is also expected to call for an inclusive and timely process that prioritizes elderly and vulnerable citizens who were affected most by the conflict.
A leader close to the cultural institution explained that the Paramount Chief believes the people of Lango have waited too long and deserve more than empty promises.
He is going to the meeting with a clear message that justice delayed is justice denied, and that the government must fulfill its pledge without further excuses.
Government figures from the Attorney General’s office indicate that of the 91,000 verified claimants, only 33,000 have received partial compensation, despite over Shs 250 billion being spent.
This has created resentment in communities that feel forgotten and sidelined.
The delays have also given rise to a growing political movement in Teso, “No Cow, No Vote,” led by opposition figures such as FDC President Patrick Oboi Amuriat, Soroti Woman MP Joan Alobo, and Soroti West Division MP Jonathan Ebwalu.
The campaign has become a unifying cry among communities demanding full compensation before the 2026 general elections.
According to organizers, the government’s failure to deliver risks alienating the very citizens it seeks to serve.
During a recent rally in Katakwi District, Vice President Alupo called on elders and leaders to remain calm and patient.
She said that this upcoming engagement at State House presents an opportunity for listening, healing, and resolution.
The meeting is expected to include not only cultural and religious leaders but also MPs, RDCs, LC5 chairpersons, councilors, and other political stakeholders from the Lango, Teso, and Acholi sub-regions.
