By Derrick Omoding
Andrew Ocole has been officially sworn in as the new Prime Minister of the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), along with three other key officials, in a vibrant ceremony held at the ICU offices.
The other newly appointed officials include Okemeri Juventine, who assumes the role of Private Personal Secretary to the Emorimor, Papa Paul Sande Emolot; Stephen Ojacor, who has been sworn in as the Deputy Minister of Information; and Ochom Patrick, who takes up the position of State Minister for Sports.
The ceremony was officiated by prominent lawyers David Obore of Obore and Co. Advocates and Valentine Iyebu of Menya and Co. Advocates, who ensured that all legal protocols were followed.
John Francis Okuma, Speaker of the ICU Council, was among the first to congratulate the newly sworn-in leaders, emphasizing the significance of their roles in advancing the ICU’s mission.
“We are honored to congratulate each of you on your successful swearing-in,” Okuma stated.
“The importance of your presence in these respective positions cannot be overstated. Your leadership is vital to the future of our cultural union.”
He welcomed the new ministers and underscored their roles as coordinators who will collaborate closely with the ICU Council to promote the Union’s welfare and unity. He expressed confidence in their ability to contribute significantly to the Union’s goals.
Nocienta Emechu, Chairperson of the ICU Council, also extended her congratulations, particularly on the appointment of Andrew Ocole as Prime Minister.
“You are most welcome, and thank you for taking your oath today. We have waited a long time for this moment,” she remarked.
Emechu recounted the prolonged anticipation for a substantive Prime Minister, noting that Ocole’s appointment follows the late Papa’s interim decision to name him Acting Prime Minister.
“Now, we have a substantive Prime Minister, marking a historic moment for our Union,” she said, urging all members to work together harmoniously for the advancement of their culture.
In his address, Emorimor Papa Paul Sande Emolot, the revered leader of the ICU, expressed his satisfaction with the swearing-in ceremony and his optimism about the Union’s future under its new leadership.
He congratulated Ocole for his experience and expressed confidence that his leadership would steer the ICU towards greater success.
“I call on all ICU leaders to support Prime Minister Ocole and work together for the common good, avoiding any attempts to undermine his leadership,” Emolot stated.
“The ICU’s success relies on cooperation and unity among all leaders. I urge everyone to prioritize the welfare of the institution.”
The Emorimor also took the opportunity to announce that preparations for the upcoming Ateker Reunion Festival were progressing well. He encouraged the people of Teso to attend in large numbers, emphasizing that the event would be a significant cultural celebration for the region.