In a whimsical turn of events, the recent wedding of East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Jacqueline Amongin and lawyer Achelles Lubega has left many in stitches as the bishop humorously equated their union to obtaining a “mining license.”
The nuptials took place at the Uganda Martyrs Basilica in Munyonyo on Saturday, October 21, and it was an affair filled with camaraderie, laughter, and, of course, the granting of a unique metaphorical license.
The radiant bride, Jacqueline Amongin, is one of Uganda’s nine representatives at the EALA, having previously served as the MP for Ngora. Her entourage featured a distinguished lineup of MPs, including Judith Achan, Beatrice Akori, Joan Alobo, Agnes Kirabo, Jane Bainomugisha, and Jacinta Atubo. Meanwhile, the groomsmen were a cadre of legal luminaries, including Haruna Golooba, Julius Ojok, Michael Ndegwe, and Jamil Mpiima.
The narrative of Jacqueline Amongin and Achelles Lubega dates back two decades when they first crossed paths as student leaders at Makerere University in the early 2000s. Their journey led them to the altar, where the bishop of Soroti, Joseph Oliach Eciru, seized the opportunity to jest and affectionately dub their union as the granting of a “mining license.” After many years of togetherness and raising children, this whimsical label fit the bill for the joyous occasion.
After the church ceremony, the newlyweds generously hosted their guests to a delightful reception at the Kololo Independence Grounds. The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, who has been a close friend of the couple for an impressive 22 years, served as the chief guest. He couldn’t help but commend Jacqueline and Achelles for their enduring bond and unwavering support for each other, describing their love story as a shining example for everyone present.
The reception was further enlivened by the melodious tunes of Stephen Rwangyezi and his Ndere Troupe, who treated the guests to traditional music from both the central region (the groom’s place of origin) and the east (the bride’s home).
Flight Captain Mike Mukula, another dear friend of the couple, praised Jacqueline Amongin’s unrelenting determination and hard work, which propelled her to prominence and even caught the attention of none other than President Yoweri Museveni. Mukula reminisced about the moment he introduced Amongin to the President, who was immediately impressed and took a keen interest in her. This connection ultimately played a significant role in her selection by the NRM CEC during the last EALA elections, despite the presence of other formidable candidates.
The wedding ceremony wasn’t short of notable guests either, with EALA Speaker Joseph Ntarikutimana and other members of the regional assembly gracing the occasion. Additionally, Ugandan ministers David Bahati and Margaret Muhanga, along with numerous members of the Ugandan Parliament, High Court judges, lawyers, and various dignitaries, all added their special touch to this lighthearted “mining license” celebration.
