Lira, Uganda | The Lango War Claimants Association has formally endorsed Moses Ogwang Adonyo as their preferred candidate for the Lira City Mayoral seat in the 2026-2031 electoral cycle.
The decision, announced during a consultative meeting on Thursday, June 5, 2025, held at Pacific Grand Hotel, underscores Ogwang Adonyo’s longstanding commitment to advocating for cattle compensation for war victims.
Okello James Terence Marks, Chairperson of the Association, acknowledged Ogwang Adonyo’s consistent support to war claimants, particularly his pivotal role in the campaign for compensation related to losses sustained during the conflict period of 1986-1987.
He emphasized that Ogwang Adonyo had stood firm with the claimants throughout the struggle and that his endurance and boldness justified his leadership of Lira City.
The cattle compensation campaign, initiated in 2006, united previously competing advocacy groups, including factions led by Akello and Obua, with Ogwang Adonyo emerging as a central figure from 2011 onwards.
The campaign culminated in a government allocation of UGX 46 billion for compensation across the Lango sub-region, with Lira City and Lira District receiving 27% of the funds in recognition of their active participation.
Other districts, such as Amolatar, received significantly lower shares due to incomplete data submission.
Obua Sam, a veteran advocate who has collaborated closely with Ogwang Adonyo, praised him as an outspoken and courageous leader, describing him as a hero who fought tirelessly to ensure rightful compensation for the people.
He urged residents of Lira City to unite behind Ogwang Adonyo, noting that his leadership transcended party politics.
Juke Joel, a regional coordinator for the War Claimants Association, criticised local leadership for greed and neglect.
He urged voters to support Ogwang Adonyo, portraying him as a leader who prioritises community interests and ensures government resources reach the intended beneficiaries.
Joel drew parallels between Ogwang Adonyo and the incumbent Kole South MP Peter Ocen Akalo, whom he described as a people-centred leader.
Moses Ogwang Adonyo, running as an independent candidate, highlighted his political experience and global engagement, referencing his participation in the 2017 International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) where he contributed to global policy development.
He presented a comprehensive manifesto that included implementing a multi-sectoral development plan targeting small, medium, and large enterprises; developing efficient and strategic road networks to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce accidents; expanding electricity supply to ensure coverage of every household; providing reliable, clean water throughout Lira City; and strengthening collaboration with security agencies to address local safety challenges.
He stressed that effective leadership required practical engagement with community issues beyond formalities, explaining that the mayor’s role was not about formal appearances but about understanding and addressing the real challenges faced by residents.
The endorsement reflects growing frustration with political leadership perceived as prioritising party allegiance and nepotism over development.
The War Claimants Association hopes Ogwang Adonyo’s candidacy will bring a fresh, inclusive approach to governance in Lira City.
The cattle compensation campaign stems from the need to address losses suffered by civilians during the Lango insurgencies in the mid-1980s.
It has been a protracted effort involving multiple advocacy groups pushing for government reparations.
The UGX 46 billion fund marked a milestone in recognizing and compensating victims in the region.