In a rather very significant development, the High Court has dealt a decisive blow to a small group of dissatisfied Lango clan chiefs(owitong) desperately attempting to elect a rival Paramount Chief, contrary to the popular vote that elected Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune on March 1, 2024.
Justice Philip Odoki, presiding over the Gulu High Court through zoom, granted an injunction against the rogue clan chiefs, led by retired Colonel Dan Opito Odwe, restraining them from proceeding with their illicit election scheduled for October 11, 2024.
The court’s interim order, dated 11th October,2024 explicitly states:”…An interim order of injunction is hereby issued against the Respondents restraining them or their agents from carrying out or continuing with the process of the ongoing election organized by the Lango Cultural Foundation or its Electoral Commission or any of its agents for the position of Won Nyaci, or declaring, installing and coronating any candidate as winner of the said election until the determination of Miscellaneous Application No. 108 of 2024…”
The order specifically names the following individuals as respondents: Obia Denis Ocila, Okii Benjamin, Ambassador Dickson Ogwang-Okul, Opito Dan Odwe, Okwir Jaramogi, Prof Dr Richard Nam and the aging Dr Dan Okello
The thwarted election is the latest attempt by the breakaway group, who subscribes to an illegal entity to undermine Eng. Dr. Odongo Okune’s legitimate leadership, recognized by the government through the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development.
Critics have condemned the group’s actions as a blatant display of impunity and selfishness, exploiting the name of the illegal Lango Cultural Foundation to swindle unsuspecting NGOs and corporate entities.
Meanwhile, preparations are in full swing for Eng. Dr. Odongo Okune’s coronation on November 2, 2024, at Lira City Mayor’s Gardens, with President Yoweri Museveni expected to grace the occasion as chief guest.
President Museveni studied at Ntare High School with Joseph William Okune (RIP), the father of the Won Nyaci-elect, whom he always referred to as ‘my son”
Renowned political figures, including Raila Amollo Odinga and dignitaries from Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and South Africa, have confirmed their attendance at this landmark event.
A delegation from Kenya, serving as an advance team, paid a courtesy call to the Paramount Chief-elect today, confirming Raila Odinga’s participation in the upcoming event.
Raila Odinga, affectionately known as “Baba” in Kenya, and Africa is a highly respected figure, and his presence is expected to add significant weight to the occasion.
This development is a great boost to the Lango community, as it reinforces the legitimacy of Eng. Dr. Odongo Okune’s leadership strengthens ties with neighbouring countries.
The event promises to be a momentous occasion, bringing together leaders from across the region and the Lango in Diaspora to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Lango people.
Commentators suggest that some individuals are leveraging the cultural body as a platform to gain President Yoweri Museveni’s attention, with the ultimate goal of securing appointments to various departments ahead of the 2026 general elections
These ambitious individuals aim to position themselves as key mobilizers and, in some cases, even trouble causers to increase their visibility, bargaining power, and appeal to Museveni.
This strategy is likely driven by the desire for power and influence, as well as the potential benefits that come with being associated with the president.
By inserting themselves into cultural and community initiatives, analysts say these individuals can demonstrate their leadership skills, build networks, and showcase their loyalty to Museveni’s agenda.
It’s worth noting that this phenomenon is not unique to Uganda or African politics.
Around the world, individuals often use community and cultural initiatives as stepping stones for their political careers.
However, the context of the upcoming 2026 elections and Museveni’s expected candidacy adds a layer of complexity to this situation.
For years at the helm of Uganda’s power, Museveni has mastered the art and it’s an uphill task for anyone to arm-twist him, since there are no more shortages of well-educated, patriotic and disciplined cadres in Uganda.
According to the Lango Cultural Institution Speaker(WonTok)Willy Kagere Omodo-Omodo, the motivations behind these actions will likely be scrutinized and only time will tell if these strategies will pay off for those seeking power and influence.
The National Organizing Committee headed by the Government Chief Whip Hon Denis Hamson Obua and deputized by Hon Maxwell Ebong Patrick Akora is going ahead with final touches to ensure the ceremony’s success.
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