Lira City, July 9, 2024 – In a significant move, the Lango Cultural Foundation has confirmed the appointment of five key members to its electoral commission, amid a lingering leadership dispute. The announcement was made during a council of Owitong meeting held at Palms Garden in Lira City, under the leadership of Paramount Chief Mzee Yosam Odur Ebii.
The newly confirmed members of the electoral commission are Col. (Rtd.) Dan Opito Odwe as Chairman, Patrick Okwir Jaramogi as Vice Chairman, Tonny Ongar as Secretary, and Molly Akello and Charles Ojok as members. Prime Minister Robert Ajal stated that eight names had been submitted to His Highness Mzee Yosam Odur Ebii, who ultimately confirmed five members for the commission.
The leadership dispute stems from the previous election on March 1, 2024, which resulted in the election of Eng. Dr. Moses Michael Odongo Okune as Won Nyaci/Paramount Chief Elect. However, Prime Minister Ajal emphasized that the election was unlawful and that the Foundation is committed to following all legal procedures to ensure a legitimate election, with the full participation of the Lango people.
The meeting also highlighted the tension between different factions within the Lango Cultural Foundation. Palacol Clan Head Ambassador Dickson Ogwang Okul accused top government officials of misleading President Museveni regarding Lango cultural affairs. Ogwang Okul claimed that he had received a call from Minister of Northern Uganda Dr. Kenneth Omona, advising him to abandon his aspirations for the Paramount Chief position in favor of a more lucrative opportunity supposedly planned by President Museveni.
Awitong Patrick Abal of the Arak Ongoda clan accused Eng. Dr. Odongo Okune of being involved in the rise of new clans in the Lango sub-region, which could lead to increased health issues like sickle cell disease. Awitong Frederick Ogwal Oyee of Inomo Clan issued a stark warning, predicting unfortunate and shameful deaths among prominent cultural leaders if the Lango leadership issue is not resolved.
The meeting also addressed financial contributions from the clan heads, who collected a total of 2.5 million UGX following their meeting at State House Entebbe on June 28, 2024.
As the Lango Cultural Foundation navigates these contentious issues, the region remains on edge, awaiting the forthcoming election and hoping for a resolution that respects the cultural heritage and unity of the Lango people.