Kampala, Uganda
In a move that underscores the ongoing legal and cultural tensions surrounding the leadership of the Lango Cultural Foundation.
Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, Betty Amongi, has set a series of stringent conditions for the re-gazzetting of Yosam Odur Ebii as the Won Nyaci (Paramount Chief) of Lango.
This follows a court order issued on October 31, 2024, by trial Judge Justice Phillip Odoki, directing the minister to restore Ebii to his previous position.
In her letter dated November 5, 2024, addressed to Ebii’s attorney, Harimwomugasho Francis, and copied to top government officials, including President Yoweri Museveni and Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, Minister Amongi outlined the requirements that must be met before she can proceed with the re-gazetting.
The key conditions include:
1. Evidence of Title Restoration: The minister requires evidence that Ebii has legally regained his position as Won Nyaci, in line with Section 5 of the Institutional or Cultural Leaders Act of 2011.
This provision is crucial in verifying that the cultural leader’s authority is in full compliance with the law.
2. Institutional Authority: Ebii’s legal team must also provide the name of the institution through which he regained his authority as Won Nyaci, ensuring this institution is in alignment with Section 7 of the same Act.
Minister Amongi emphasized that this step is vital for her to consult with the Chief Legal Advisor to the Government (Attorney General) for further guidance before proceeding with the re-gazetting.
In the letter, Minister Amongi reiterated her position that Yosam Odur Ebii voluntarily abdicated his office as Won Nyaci and did not take legal action against the government to reclaim his position.
She stressed that these conditions must be met to ensure legal and institutional compliance.
The court ruling, which had directed the minister to act on the matter, has sparked fresh debates about leadership within the Lango Cultural Foundation.
Yosam Odur Ebii’s supporters argue that his return to office is necessary for the cultural unity of the Lango people, while critics question the legality and timing of his reinstallation.
Minister Amongi’s firm stance, coupled with the legal hurdles outlined in her letter, signals a protracted process before any decision on the re-gazetting can be made.
Her careful approach highlights the complexity of balancing legal, institutional, and cultural considerations in restoring a traditional leader to office.
The development comes as the Lango Cultural Foundation, an institution key to the region’s cultural heritage, continues to face internal divisions and external scrutiny regarding the legitimacy of its leadership and the governance of its affairs.
The outcome of this issue will likely have lasting implications for both the Lango people and the broader cultural leadership framework in Uganda.
