The Lango cultural institution’s electoral commission is facing financial challenges as it seeks approximately Shs40 million to conduct the upcoming election of the won nyaci or paramount chief. Tom Otim, the chairperson of the electoral commission, expressed difficulties in raising the required funds, emphasizing the absence of a secretariat within the Lango cultural institution.
Otim addressed journalists in Lira City, highlighting their reliance on gathering resources from volunteers in piecemeal fashion to conduct the election scheduled for January 31, 2024. He urged local communities to contribute to the funding, emphasizing the need for financial support to ensure the success of the election.
The electoral body is currently updating the voters’ register, with an expectation of at least 15 members from each of the 150-plus clans in Lango participating in the election.
To address the financial shortfall, Otim is relying on a Shs1.3 million contribution from each of the 31 Lango lawmakers. He urged the lawmakers to release funds to support the election and emphasized the lack of alternative funding sources.
Background: The Lango cultural institution has experienced leadership wrangles between two factions of clan leaders under Tekwaro Lango and Lango Cultural Foundation since 2013. The recent dissolution of cabinets and reunification followed a reconciliation meeting.
The conflict began in August 2013 when the then speaker of Lango Cultural Foundation rebelled against Won Nyaci Mzee Yosam Odur Ebii. The ensuing leadership dispute led to the emergence of parallel factions, each with its own administration. Efforts towards reunification gained momentum, with negotiations and cabinet reshuffles taking place in recent years.
In October 2023, Mzee Odur Ebii declared his intention to relinquish power and outlined a transition roadmap for a smooth transfer of leadership, culminating in a new leader taking office in December 2024. The upcoming paramount chief election is a crucial step in this transition process.
