LIRA CITY – In a significant move to preempt electoral violence, the Won Nyaci of Lango, Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune, convened a high-level meeting with the region's top security and administrative leaders on Wednesday, issuing a powerful appeal for peace and order ahead of the forthcoming national elections.
The meeting, held at the Won Nyaci’s residence in Senior Quarters, Lira City, brought together the region's most senior security figures under the auspices of the cultural institution to forge a united front for a peaceful electoral period.
Dr. Odongo Okune made a direct appeal to the people of Lango, urging them to “avoid all forms of violence, chaos, and bloodshed.” He emphasized the need for calm and law-abiding conduct, expressing his desire to see the community “fully prepared to elect leaders for the next five years in a peaceful and orderly manner that respects the rule of law.”
Addressing the convergence of politics and security, the Paramount Chief stressed that political leaders must collaborate with both government institutions and cultural authorities to drive development that meets the people's needs. He highlighted the critical role of cultural leaders, alongside security agencies, in sensitizing the public on peaceful coexistence during the heightened periods of campaigns and voting.
Beyond the immediate electoral context, Dr. Odongo Okune called for lasting unity within Lango. He appealed for the peaceful resolution of pervasive land disputes and the responsible handling of cultural obligations, warning that disagreements should not be allowed to fester into inter-community hatred or violence.
Looking forward, he outlined the community’s expectations from the government, listing prioritization of education, health services, economic development, proper land management, and family unity as key post-election deliverables.
The meeting underscored the institutional partnership between cultural leadership and state security apparatus. It was attended by a formidable delegation including Ms. Alice Akello, Commissioner in the Office of the President in charge of RDCs/RCCs for Northern Uganda; ACP Wesley Nganizi, Regional Police Commander for North Kyoga; Lira District RDC Ms. Lilian Eyal; Lira City Deputy RCC Mr. Steven Odongo; North Kyoga Police Spokesperson Patrick Jimmy Okema; a representative from the Regional Internal Security Office (RISO); and several other cultural leaders.
The gathering signals a proactive, collaborative effort between traditional and formal governance structures to mitigate conflict risks and foster a secure environment for the democratic process in the Lango sub-region.
