By Temiteo Okwakol
Serere—The community of Pingire, Serere, gathered to pay their final respects to Mwalimu Joseph Okello, a dedicated educator who spent 30 years shaping minds at Soroti Secondary School. The somber event became a platform for political discourse as UPC President Jimmy Akena addressed the mourners, criticizing the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) for its neglect of the Teso region.
Akena took the opportunity to reflect on the once-prosperous Teso, a region known for its wealth and vibrant community. He lamented the current state of affairs, emphasizing that the NRM has failed the people of Teso. “This region was rich and its people were wealthy,” Akena stated. “Today, the children and remaining people are crying to the government to pay and compensate for the cattle and lives lost. Unfortunately, it has now become a political and laughing point.”
The UPC leader’s speech resonated deeply with the mourners, many of whom have felt the impact of historical injustices and economic hardships. Akena pointed out the persistent issues of unpaid compensations for cattle and lives lost during past conflicts, which remain a sore point for the people of Teso. “Unless Iteso wake up, they will be a laughing stock of the NRM,” he warned, urging the community to recognize their potential and demand better governance.
Mwalimu Joseph Okello’s legacy as an educator was celebrated by his former students and colleagues, who remembered him as a passionate and committed teacher. His dedication to education and the betterment of his community was evident in the numerous lives he touched throughout his career. As the community mourned his loss, they also found a renewed sense of urgency in Akena’s words, reminding them of the ongoing struggles they face and the need for unity and action.