Lira | As the Lango Cultural Foundation(LCF) prepares to elect a new Won Nyaci (paramount chief), a traditional authority opinion has put former Dokolo South legislator, Felix Okot Ogong, at the front.
The development follows the vacancy created by the death of Highness Yosam Odur Ebii, with Frederick Ogwal Oyee, the Prime Minister of the Foundation, currently serving as the interim Won Nyaci, according to the cultural institution’s constitution.
Multiple sources across the Lango sub-region, including sections of clan heads who spoke on condition of anonymity, have indicated that Okot Ogong “takes the lead” as the most suitable candidate.
The clan leaders have urged the former lawmaker to formally declare his interest and contest for the throne during the upcoming election.
“He is the right man for the Wonyaci seat,” one clan head said, citing Ogong’s long-standing relationship with the traditional institution.”
Another added, “We have asked him to consider contesting. Among all potential figures, his credentials stand out.”
The call for Ogong to ascend to the cultural throne has been amplified by citizens from various town councils and divisions across Lango, who cite his moral standing, leadership longevity, and historic role during the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency as key qualifications.
Tonny Ogwok, a resident of Bata Town Council, argued that the new Wonyaci must be a person of high moral character and a long-serving leader.
“Felix Okot Ogong has all the necessary qualifications,” Ogwok said. “We are asking him to contest because he embodies the integrity and experience required to lead the Lango Cultural Foundation.”
Echoing those sentiments, Anna Akullo, a resident of Amach Town Council, pointed to Ogong’s tangible achievements, particularly during the LRA war that devastated the region.
“Okot Ogong’s achievements in Lango qualify him to lead us,” Akullo stated. “We remember his role in the recruitment of the Amuka (local militia) during the LRA insurgency in Lango. He stood with our people when we needed protection the most.”
The sentiment was further reinforced in Lira City, where Boniface Ojok, a resident of Senior Quarter, endorsed Ogong unreservedly. “Okot Ogong stands with Lango all the time,” Ojok said.
Also read: Yosam remained the legitimate Won Nyaci until his death – LCF speaker
“He has never abandoned his people, whether in peace or in crisis. That is the kind of leader we need as our Wonyaci.”
Background
The upcoming election for the Wonyaci is being conducted under the constitution of the Lango Cultural Foundation. Currently, Frederick Ogwal Oyee, the Prime Minister of the Foundation, holds the position of interim Won Nyaci.
The election is intended to permanently fill the cultural throne following the process to replace His Highness Yosam Odur Ebii.
As of press time, Felix Okot Ogong had not issued an official statement regarding whether he will heed the calls from clan heads and residents to contest.
The Lango Cultural Foundation has yet to announce the official date for the election, but political and cultural analysts suggest the race is already taking shape around Ogong’s potential candidacy.
Meanwhile, Ogong has yet to publicly announce his interest in the Won Nyaci seat.
By Alele Ronald
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