Ambassador Dickson Ogwang and Eng Dr Michael Moses Odongo Okune. The two had been elected as Lango paramount chiefs through different elections, causing tensions in the region. Court cancelled their respective election. PHOTO/COMBO
The controversy surrounding the failed installation of a new Paramount Chief, or Won Nyaci-elect, of Lango has taken a new turn, with National Resistance Movement (NRM) leaders warning that it could significantly impact the outcome of the 2026 general elections.
The installation of Eng Dr Michael Moses Odongo Okune as Won Nyaci was halted after the High Court in Lira declared his March 1 election "illegal, null, and void" due to irregularities in the electoral process. This ruling has left a leadership vacuum in Lango, with Mr Martin Abila, Oyam NRM vice chairperson, stating that "lacuna brings a lot of confusion because each and every time there must be a leader to guide the community."
Mr Patrick Okullo Okeng, the Alebtong NRM publicity secretary, emphasised that the failed coronation would have far-reaching consequences on individuals who opposed the traditional ritual. "It will further have implications on the national politics of Uganda. Nobody should think that some people will be too smart enough this time," he warned.
The controversy surrounding the election has also led to the emergence of a parallel cultural leader, Mr Dickson Ogwang Okul, who was elected by loyalists of the outgoing cultural leader, Mzee Yosam Odur Ebii. The court has ordered Mr Ogwang Okul not to hold out as Won Nyaci.
The NRM spokesperson, Mr Emmanuel Dombo, noted that President Museveni does not have a side in the matter and advised those dissatisfied with the court's decision to appeal. However, clan leaders like Mr Geoffrey Ocen Abia, Bako Opuk Clan head, are urging caution, stating that "politics is all about the majority... President Museveni should take this as a serious concern."
Ms Joan Pacuto, a former Resident District Commissioner, described the court ruling as horrible. "It destroyed stability and joy," she said.
Mr Tom Acuma, NRM chairperson of Aleka Sub-county in Oyam District, said before March 1, 2024, he had not witnessed the election of Won Nyaci since he was born. "My first time witnessing the election of Won Nyaci was when Owitong from Lango elected Eng Dr Odongo Okune. It was a very transparent process which was witnessed by representatives from the government, and civil society organisations. When people were going for coronation the following day, the court came up with a ruling at night nullifying the election," Mr Acuma explained.
He said people are left wounded by this court ruling "and if not carefully managed by the government, many people, including President Museveni will not get votes in Lango."
The failed coronation has also resulted in a significant financial loss, with part of the Shs2.8 billion contributed by Lango, their friends, in-laws, corporate entities, and government agencies not being recovered.
As the 2026 elections approach, the situation in Lango is likely to have significant implications for the NRM and President Museveni's re-election bid. The Lango Cultural Institution, which elected Dr Odongo Okune as Won Nyaci, has already appealed against the decision of the court.
Col (Rtd) Tonny Otoa, the Abwor Clan head, said the battle is still on.
"The clans of Lango are deeply angered to the extent that they are most likely going to the grassroots and they will do their mobilisation. It will have implications on everybody’s politics including politics where the interest of President Museveni will be," he said.
Mr Geoffrey Ocen Abia, Bako Opuk Clan head, cautioned: "In a situation where the majority decides and the will of the majority is being bogged down, it will create a political effect because politics is all about the majority. So, President Museveni should take this as a serious concern because politics is the game of the majority."
