In a historic traditional ceremony at Angolo Primary School in Otwal Sub-county, Oyam District yesterday 3rd May 2025, Prof. Willy Okullo was enthroned as Prime Minister, making him the second Prime Minister in the the history of Lango Cultural Institution. The event was graced by His Royal Highness Engineer Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune, the fully gazetted King of Lango, has constituted a new cabinet dedicated to steering Lango towards economic and cultural transformation.
A Gathering of greatness and pride of Lango and Ateker communities from Ethiopia to Kenya drew together a remarkable assembly of dignitaries and traditional leaders from across Uganda and the Ateker region. Notable among the guests were, Kings from Sebei, Buruuli, Bugisu, and Kumam kingdoms, The Teso King, Paul Sande Etomeileng Emolot – Emorimor Papa Iteso III – was represented by Hon. Ochoggia Abdallah, accompanied by Dr. Eriaku Peter Emmanuel, Executive Director of the Iteso Cultural Union Development Foundation.
Hon. Betty Amongi, Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Hon. Sam Engola and other prominent sons and daughters of Lango and all the Lango clan leaders (Awitong), graced the occassion, symbolizing unity and collective vision. It was a Momentous Occasion for Ateker Peoples.
The new Prime Minister hosted and fed the community in his community home as a symbolic demonstration of his ability to provide stewardship and effective leadership, unity, mutual respect, and cultural pride.
Oyam is known as a food basket of Lango region. The presence of high-level delegations from neighboring kingdoms showed the shared heritage and aspirations for regional cooperation and development of Ateker Community. Lango Cultural Institution already preparing to host Ateker Reunion in 2028.
King Odongo Okune’s address emphasized a new era for Lango, rooted in structured governance, economic self-reliance, and cultural preservation. He called on his cabinet and the entire community to prioritize, Unity and reconciliation among all Lango people; Financial independence for the cultural institution through strategic projects; Revitalization of traditional values, language, and customs; Modernization of agriculture and embracing of education to empower youth
Prof. Willy Okullo, as Premier, outlined the responsibilities of each minister and stressed transparency, accountability, and community engagement as pillars for progress. Plans were announced for launching an official Tekwaro Lango website and developing a cultural hub to preserve and promote Lango heritage.
Symbolic Acts and Future Plans.
The ceremony also celebrated the recent reclamation of historic land in Ireda Estate, Lira City, now set to become the official residence of the Won Nyaci and a cultural museum. This act, led by Retired Colonel Tonny Otoa, was hailed as a major victory for Lango’s self-determination and cultural identity a Message of Hope and Unity.
The coronation of Prof. Willy Okullo as Premier under the leadership of King Odongo Okune, marks a turning point for Lango. It is a call to harness cultural strength for economic empowerment and to safeguard traditions for future generations.
The event’s grandeur and the unity displayed by all attending kingdoms and dignitaries signal a bright future for Lango and the Ateker peoples as they embrace transformation while honoring their rich cultural heritage.