Lango Cultural Leadership Dispute: Mediation Efforts Face Challenges

The ongoing dispute over the cultural leadership of Lango has prompted significant mediation efforts by the Lango Religious Leaders Forum (LARELEF). However, recent correspondence reveals complications that may hinder the mediation process.

On July 19, 2024, LARELEF, led by Chairman Rt. Rev. Prof. Alfred Olwa, communicated their readiness to mediate the leadership dispute between the Lango Cultural Foundation (Ker Te Kwaro Lango), headed by His Highness Mzee Yosam Odur Ebii, the Won Nyaci of Lango, and the Lango Cultural Institution (Tekwaro A’ Lango), led by Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune. The mediation sessions are scheduled for August 8 and 9, 2024, at the Onomo Hotel in Nakasero, Kampala, with preparations requiring both parties to send seven representatives.

However, a letter dated July 22, 2024, from Makmot Kibwanga & Company Advocates, representing the Lango Cultural Institution (LCI), raises several concerns. The letter, addressed to Prof. Alfred Olwa, highlights the following issues:

1.   Vacant Position: The letter claims that the position of Prime Minister of the Lango Cultural Foundation is currently vacant following the dismissal of the previous occupant, Mr. Robert Ajal, on September 29, 2023. This dismissal was accompanied by the removal of the entire cabinet by His Highness, Yosam Odur Ebii, who has not reinstated any officials since then.
2. Legal Status: The Lango Cultural Foundation is described as a non-existing legal entity, having been quashed by the Constitutional Court in a previous ruling.
3. Lack of Consultation: The Lango Cultural Institution asserts that it was not consulted in the preparation of the mediation process. Despite attempts to engage with LARELEF, including sending a delegation to meet with the new chairperson, their efforts were declined.
4. Preparation Concerns: The letter outlines concerns regarding the mediation’s logistics, including the composition of the mediation panel, timing, venue, and funding transparency.

Despite these challenges, the LCI expresses a commitment to pursue mediation, as advised by high-level meetings with the President and reiterated by the High Court of Lira. The LCI insists that successful mediation must involve the Council of Elders of Owiitong and calls for proper consultation and preparation.

This unfolding situation underscores the complexities involved in mediating traditional leadership disputes, with legal, procedural, and consultative aspects all playing crucial roles. Both parties are expected to make concerted efforts to resolve these issues amicably, ensuring that the cultural leadership of the Lango community is effectively managed.