Over 200 delegates from the Lango sub-region gathered at State House Entebbe on Friday, June 28, 2024, to meet with President Yoweri Museveni. The meeting aimed to address and find solutions to the ongoing tensions surrounding cultural leadership in the Lango sub-region.
The event saw attendance from various key figures, including clan heads, bishops, members of the Elders Council “Itogo,” and prominent politicians from the Lango sub-region and Northern Uganda. Notable attendees included Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, Hon. Amongi Betty Akena, Government Chief Whip Denis Hamson Obua, Dr. Omona Kenneth, Members of Parliament, RDCs, and opinion leaders, along with several media representatives.
The atmosphere at State House was filled with jubilation and celebration, particularly among supporters of His Highness Eng. Dr. Moses Michael Odongo Okune. Led by Speaker Omodo Omodo Willy (Won Tok) and Awitong Olet Magezi, the cultural institution members expressed their joy at the meeting’s outcome, which aligned with their expectations.
During the meeting, President Museveni advised Yosam Odur and his team to either follow legal procedures in court or consult with the council of Owitong if they were dissatisfied with the results of the March 1, 2024, election. This election, held at Akii-Bua Stadium in Lira, saw over 150 clan heads vote for Okune as the Won Nyaci elect of the Lango Cultural Institution, with his coronation scheduled for November 2, 2024.
Various speakers from both sides, including supporters of Eng. Dr. Moses Michael Odongo Okune and Yosam Odur Ebii, shared their views and made remarks during the meeting.
In his closing remarks, President Museveni emphasized that the purpose of the meeting was not to judge but to understand the issues at play within the Lango Cultural Institution. He encouraged both sides to engage in dialogue with the assistance of bishops to reach an amicable solution and report back to him. Should the parties fail to resolve the dispute, the President noted that those feeling aggrieved were free to pursue legal action, and the government would respect the court’s decision.
With preparations now in high gear, the coronation of Won Nyaci elect Dr. Okune is set to take place on November 2, 2024, at Mayor’s Garden in Lira City. The Lango community has expressed gratitude to President Museveni for addressing the cultural and leadership tensions diplomatically.
