Lira, Uganda – In a historic and momentous ceremony held on Wednesday February 5, 2025 at Lira High Court, Eng. Dr. Moses Michael Odongo Okune was officially sworn in as the Paramount Chief (Won Nyaci) of Lango, marking a significant milestone for the Lango Cultural Institution and the community at large.
This event followed a decisive ruling by the Court of Appeal in Kampala, which put an injunction on an earlier Lira High Court decision that had halted Odongo Okune from performing his duties as Won Nyaci.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by clan heads (Owitong), cultural leaders, legal dignitaries, and community members from across the Lango sub-region.
The ceremony, presided over by legal counsel Dr. Adams Makmot Kibwanga, along with Counsels Patrick Okwir and Mary Rita, highlighted the resilience and determination of the Lango Cultural Institution to uphold its traditions amidst legal battles.
Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Adams Makmot Kibwanga, the Attorney General of the Lango Cultural Institution, emphasized that the Court’s intervention was a victory for justice and cultural preservation.
Following the oath-taking, the legal team officially handed over the documentation to the Speaker (Wontok) of the Lango Cultural Institution, Willy Omodo Omodo, during a council meeting held at Senior Quarters in Lira City.
In his heartfelt acceptance speech, His Royal Highness Eng. Dr. Moses Michael Odongo Okune acknowledged the challenges faced during his leadership journey but urged the people of Lango to move past the divisions.
“The Lira High Court’s decision to halt my coronation brought shame and division among our people. However, I am grateful that the Court of Appeal recognized the need for fairness and justice,” Odongo Okune stated. “It’s time for us to forget the past, focus on unity, and live in peace. Forgiveness is key because no one knows the will of God. We must work together to move Lango to greater heights.”
Odongo Okune also addressed those who opposed his coronation, urging reconciliation.
“There are many who had a hand in halting my coronation slated for November 2, 2024, but I appeal to all of you—let’s come together, bury our differences, and focus on the future of Lango,” he added.
Sheikh Yusuf Balinda, the Lango Muslim Supreme Kardi, appealed to His Royal Highness to embrace forgiveness and reconciliation.
“Your Highness, you are known for your good heart. I urge you to forgive all those who wronged you. Focus on steering Lango towards peace and prosperity. Let us not allow political differences, especially those related to the Lira City Woman MP race, to interfere with our cultural matters,” Balinda remarked.
Following the swearing-in, Speaker Willy Omodo Omodo officially pronounced Eng. Dr. Moses Michael Odongo Okune as the Paramount Chief of Lango.
He announced plans to notify the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, along with signatories of various clan chiefs, about the development.
“Today, we have reaffirmed the leadership of Odongo Okune as the Won Nyaci of Lango. I will formally write to the relevant authorities to inform them of this important milestone,” Omodo Omodo declared.
He was also re-endorsed as the Speaker of the Lango Cultural Institution by the council members during the same meeting.
In one of his first acts as the officially sworn-in Paramount Chief, Odongo Okune unveiled his new cabinet, appointing distinguished individuals to key positions aimed at fostering development and cultural preservation.
• Prime Minister: Prof. Willy Okullu
• 1st Deputy Prime Minister (SACCO & Cooperatives): Simon Odepe
• 2nd Deputy Prime Minister (Wealth Creation): Brig. Gen. Bosco Omure
• 3rd Deputy Prime Minister (Investigation): Maxwell Akora
• 4th Deputy Prime Minister (Oil and Minerals): Almulaferi Ongwen
• Minister of Finance: Bosco Ogwang Edola
• 1st Deputy Minister of Finance: Geoffrey Etwop
• 2nd Deputy Minister of Finance: Sam Beni Okwir
• Minister of Education and Sports: George Ojwang Opota
• Deputy Minister of Education and Sports: R.S. Tego
• Minister of Law: Simon Peter Odoo
• Attorney General: Dr. Adams Makmot Kibwanga
• Minister of Culture: Peter Okello Oyoo
• Minister of Lands: Jurubabel Opio Okori
Odongo Okune tasked his cabinet with the responsibility of active service, emphasizing the importance of integrity, transparency, and dedication.
“I have written clear roles for each of you. Serve diligently because Lango’s progress depends on our collective efforts. Let us end hatred, vulgar language, and unnecessary conflicts if we are to prosper,” he urged.
The swearing-in of Eng. Dr. Moses Michael Odongo Okune as the Paramount Chief of Lango symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter marked by unity, reconciliation, and cultural revitalization.
The ceremony not only restored the dignity of the Lango Cultural Institution but also reignited hope for a peaceful and prosperous future for the people of Lango.
As Lango looks forward to a brighter future under the leadership of Odongo Okune, the message remains clear: unity is strength, and through collective effort, Lango can achieve greatness both within Uganda and on the global stage.
