Lira City – In a landmark address at the Lango Cultural Centre, Speaker/Wontok Willy Omodo Omodo shed light on the recent developments and controversies surrounding the Lango Cultural Institution. With clarity and conviction, Omodo Omodo emphasized the need for unity and peace in Lango, urging all stakeholders to work together towards a common goal.
Omodo Omodo began by highlighting the legal battles that have plagued the institution. In 2018, Krispus Ayena Odongo took incumbent Wonyaci Mzee Yosam Odur Ebii and Eng. Dr. Moses Michael Odongo Okune to court, questioning the existence of Lango Cultural Foundation. The court ruled in favour of Odongo Okune, recognizing him as the Paramount Chief of Lango, and tasked Yosam Odur Ebii to pay a sum of money to Odongo Okune. Significantly, the court declared Lango Cultural Foundation non-existent, referencing the 2012 Lango Conference that renamed it Lango Cultural Institution.
In a surprising move, Odur Ebii and his associates registered Lango Cultural Foundation Ltd in September 2023, which Omodo Omodo emphasized is a business entity, not a cultural institution. This move contravenes the Cultural Institution’s Act 2012, which prohibits cultural institutions from being money-oriented.
Omodo Omodo explained that he suspended the cultural institution’s constitution in February due to multiple versions causing confusion in Lango. He acted on the guidance of the Attorney General through the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, dissolving the constitution to maintain order.
The Speaker/Wontok urged the minority faction of Owitong to join the majority and work together to bring peace and unity to Lango. He stressed that there is no more blessing of Wonyaci Elect, as Mzee Yosam Odur Ebii had already blessed Odongo Okune twice.
Omodo Omodo warned that any attempts to organize unlawful elections would be considered a threat to security in Lango. He has already notified security officers to arrest anyone involved in such activities.
On a positive note, Omodo Omodo announced that preparations are underway for the coronation event of Wonyaci Elect Odongo Okune, scheduled for November 2nd, 2024. The event will take place at Magarita Hotel in Lira, with a fundraising dinner planned for August 31st, 2024, at Kololo Airstrip.
A friendly match between Lango Members of Parliament and Owitong is scheduled for July 29th in Alebtong. Additionally, members of the diaspora are contributing generously towards the coronation event.
Omodo Omodo’s address clarified the controversies surrounding the Lango Cultural Institution, emphasizing the need for unity and peace. As the institution moves forward, it is clear that the Speaker/Wontok is committed to maintaining order and promoting the welfare of the Lango people.