Lira, Uganda – On November 29, 2024, Justice Philip Odoki dismissed an application to stay the execution of the judgment in the highly contested case of Eng. Odongo Okune & others versus Denis Obia Acila & another.
The ruling challenges the election of Eng. MM Odongo-Okune as the Paramount Chief of Lango and its dismissal has sparked mixed reactions across the region.
The application, filed by the plaintiffs in the case, sought to delay the enforcement of a judgment that had affirmed Eng. Odongo-Okune’s position.
However, the law stipulates that such an application must be presented to the same judge who passed the original judgment.
Justice Odoki disagreed with the applicants’ legal arguments, resulting in the dismissal of their plea with costs.
In a statement issued by Lango Cultural Institution’s spokesperson, Okwir Patrick, expressed disappointment with the ruling, emphasizing that the Institution will now focus its efforts on appealing the decision at the Court of Appeal in Kampala.
“We are confident that the Court of Appeal will provide the justice we seek and address the disappointments left by the Odoki judgment and ruling,” Okwir stated.
Despite the setback, Lango Cultural Institution urged the clan leaders and the people of Lango to remain calm, peaceful and unified in their pursuit of an acceptable and legitimate traditional leader.
“We call on all right-thinking people of Lango to continue their efforts toward unity and cohesion. This is a time to work together, not divide ourselves,” the statement read.
The Institution also expressed gratitude to the clan leaders, political figures and the people of Lango for their participation in the recent Ateker Festival held in Soroti City.
The celebration, which highlighted the rich cultural heritage of Lango, has been hailed as a resounding success, and the Institution thanked those involved for fostering pride and solidarity among the people of Lango.
“We remain hopeful that justice will prevail not only in the appellate court but also in the eyes of the people,” Okwir concluded, reaffirming their commitment to pursuing the case further.
Greed and love for money will kill Lango leaders. This court case may go to heaven unfortunately. Instead of focusing on bringing lasting peace, unity and stability in Lango by embracing a reconciliation approach, people are still concentrating on our group must win. Lango Wee let’s wake up. A lawyer will always fight even when he or she knows such a case won’t favour you just for the love of money.
I urge church leaders to intervene without taking sides in this matter and forge way of restoring peace in Lango. If not calamities will fall in our land.
My view: Daniel
Remember Solomon’s wise ruling on the two women. If truly the living child belongs to you, you would have surrendered the court case, just as the mother of the living child surrendered the child to the one who wanted the child cut into two. 1Kings 3:16-28