LIRA, UGANDA – n a powerful show of cultural leadership and national healing, His Highness Eng. Dr. Moses Michael Odongo Okune (Won Nyaci), the Paramount Chief of Lango, has called for unity, forgiveness, and collective development in the aftermath of the 2026 general elections. Speaking during a Grand Reconciliation and Unity Prayer Meeting held in Lira City, Dr. Okune urged both winners and losers in the recent polls to rise above political divisions and work together for the progress of the Lango sub-region.
The event, organized by the Lango Cultural Institution, brought together political leaders, traditional rulers, religious figures, civil servants, and ordinary citizens in a solemn yet hopeful atmosphere. It aimed to heal the wounds left by competitive elections and lay a foundation for five years of peace-driven development.
“Let us celebrate each other’s success, not out of obligation, but out of genuine joy for one another,” said Won Nyaci in his keynote address. “We are all Lango first, politicians second.”
A Call for Cultural Pride and Self-Reliance:
Dr. Okune emphasized the importance of promoting the Lango language in all public spheres—councils, churches, schools, and even banking institutions. He urged financial institutions to establish branches in Lango-speaking areas staffed with personnel who can transact in Leb Lango.
“We must not be ashamed of our mother tongue,” he declared. “Our language is not a sign of backwardness—it is our identity. If we cannot speak, teach, and govern in our own language, who are we?”
He further encouraged the people of Lango to embrace values such as respect, hard work, honesty, fairness, and independent thinking. “Dependency kills innovation,” he warned. “Let us raise children who think critically, speak boldly, and act with integrity.”
Healing Political Wounds with Forgiveness:
Drawing from personal and family experiences, Dr. Okune shared how his late father, a former minister, had lost his parliamentary seat in Maruji County (Apac District) in 1996 to his own campaign manager—a cautionary tale for contemporary politicians.
“Be careful with those you trust too closely,” he said. “Leadership is not just about winning elections, but about discerning who walks beside you.”
Reflecting on his own journey to becoming Paramount Chief—a path marked by controversy and opposition—Dr. Okune admitted the struggle was long and painful. But he used the experience to call for forgiveness.
“I am ready to forgive anyone who is in court cases with me,” he announced to applause. “For the sake of our people, for the sake of future generations, let us drop the grudges and move forward together.”
He reminded both victors and defeated candidates that election outcomes are temporary, warning winners against arrogance. “Victory does not make you superior. Humility keeps you close to the people,” he said.
Condemnation of Homosexuality and Moral Decay
In strong cultural and moral terms, Won Nyaci denounced rumors of homosexual activities spreading in Lango. “There is no room for homosexuality in Lango culture,” he stated firmly. “Our traditions, our values, and our God condemn such practices. Let us protect our children and our heritage.”
Leadership by Example
In a fatherly appeal to political leaders, Dr. Okune stressed the importance of mentorship and accountability. He criticized leaders who surround themselves only with yes-men, calling for honest advisors who will correct mistakes.
“Do not recruit personal assistants who will never tell you when you’re wrong,” he said. “Find mentors who will speak truth to power—even when it hurts.”
Citing Chinese revolutionary leader Mao Zedong—whom he referred to as “Mao Cheitum”—Dr. Okune quoted: “No investigation, no right to speak.” He used the quote to urge leaders to engage with grassroots realities before making decisions.
Development Agenda: Upgrading Amach Market:
Turning to development, Won Nyaci called on the national government to upgrade Amach Market into an international trading hub. “Amach can be the economic engine of Northern Uganda,” he said, urging infrastructure investment, security, and modernization of market facilities.
He also commended the people of Lango for their overwhelming support for President Yoweri Museveni in the 2026 elections, noting that over 80% of the electorate backed the incumbent. “This shows wisdom and political maturity,” he said.
Hon. Felix Okot Ogong, MP for Dokolo South and representative of the Owitong Lango clan, echoed the call for unity. “We must put aside our differences and serve the people with love and commitment,” he said. “Peace and respect are not optional—they are the foundation of progress.”
He praised the cultural institution for initiating the reconciliation process, emphasizing that “we are all ambassadors of peace.”
Other dignitaries in attendance included RDC Alebtong Okiswa Geoffrey, RCC Lira City, Egole Emmy Lawrence, RDC Kole, Jillian Akullo, Ambassador Paul Amoro, Emeritus Bishop Tom Ibrahim Okello, Bishop Odur Kami, Chairperson of the Lango Parliamentary Group Hon. Judith Alyek, and Kole North MP Dr. Samuel Opio Acuti.Others were; Hon.MP Paul Omara- MP Otuke County, Geoffrey Ocen Kiring- MP-elect Kioga North Constituency, Auma Janet Okao, WMP-Elect Amolatar District, Professor Celestino Obua, the Chairperson UNEB, All the Clan Heads (Awitong) and many others delegates.
Hon Denis Hamson Obua, Government Chief Whip and NRM Northern National Vice Chairperson, added his voice, urging Langi to take pride in their own. “We have great sons and daughters,” he said. “Let’s stop pointing fingers at other regions. Our leaders must work in harmony—for the good of all.”
Reconciliation Requires Courage
The gathering concluded with a collective prayer for peace, guided by religious leaders from various denominations. Dr. Okune reminded all present that reconciliation is not passive—it “demands courage and requires brushing away our pride.”
“This is not the end of politics,” he said. “But let it be the beginning of true unity.”
As the sun set over Lira, thousands left the venue not just with hope, but with a renewed sense of togetherness, responsibility—to forgive, to build, and to lead with heart under the vibrant cultural leadership of Eng. Dr. Odongo Okune.
