Lango Speaker Warns Former Clan Leaders Against Defying Elders’ Decisions on Leadership Changes

The Speaker of Tekwaro Lango, Willy Omodo Omodo, has called on Lango leaders to respect decisions made by the elders’ council arbitration committee, particularly when communities demand changes in traditional leadership.

Omodo made the remarks during the unveiling of new leaders of Arak Ocola Iyam-Iyam at the Lango Cultural Centre, where preparations are underway for the installation of the clan’s new head.

He said traditional leaders who are removed from office through a decision of the elders’ council, backed by the people, should respect the outcome and peacefully relinquish their positions.

According to Omodo, failure by former leaders to accept such decisions often creates divisions and prolonged disputes, as they continue to claim authority over the same communities.

He warned that such situations can undermine unity within clans and create unnecessary conflicts between traditional leaders and their successors.

“When the elders’ council makes a decision supported by the people, those affected should respect it and leave office,” Omodo said.

The call comes as Arak Ocola Iyam-Iyam moves to install its ninth clan head following changes in its traditional leadership.

Otiti Obote, the clan head of Atek Adyang Okide and Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, together with Benson Moses Taiwoo, the clan head of Ocukuru Amola and Deputy Speaker of Lango, commended the incoming clan head for what they described as good character and leadership qualities.

They challenged him to use his position to promote development within the clan while operating within the laws of Uganda and prioritising the interests of his people.

Clan leaders also appealed to the office of the Lango Paramount Chief to formally recognise the new clan head as preparations for his installation gain momentum.

James Ronny Otyek Alinga, the clan Electoral Commission secretary, Betty Oryang Rwot, the women’s leader of Aber, and Tonny Otyek were among the leaders who made the call.

They said efforts would soon begin to mobilise funds to facilitate the installation ceremony of the new clan head.

Speaking after being unveiled, Willy Odongo, the ninth clan head of Arak Ocola Iyam-Iyam, said he had accepted the responsibility with humility and a commitment to serve his people with respect.

Odongo said understanding and respecting traditional leadership structures would be critical in enabling him to effectively execute his responsibilities across the clan’s 16 counties.

Meanwhile, Robert Okwanga Alem, spokesperson for Arak Ocola Iyam-Iyam, praised the people of Tekere for their commitment and determination to their clan leadership.

He said the community had demonstrated the same commitment during the 17 years of service under the previous clan leadership.

The unveiling marks another step in the clan’s preparations for the installation of its new leadership, amid calls for unity, respect for traditional institutions and peaceful transitions of power.