By Patriot Corps
Dakabela County aspirant, Mr. Peter Edeku Edopu, made a significant impact on September 8th during the grand mass wedding of 63 couples held at Katine Catholic Parish in Soroti District, where he chaired the organizing committee.
The event, officiated by Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Eciru, Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese, was a momentous occasion, drawing thousands of people and hundreds of parishioners who gathered to witness the couples exchange vows and receive the sacrament of matrimony.
Mr. Peter Edeku Edopu, a well-respected figure steadily gaining favor among the people of Dakabela, showcased his unparalleled leadership, influence, and dedication to his community. In addition to personally contributing an impressive UGX 10 million towards the construction of the parish church, Mr. Edopu purchased a bull for UGX 6 million during the event’s fundraising. His contributions did not stop there he also donated 63 mattresses and bedsheets to all the newly wedded couples, ensuring they had a comfortable start to their marriages.
Edopu’s ability to rally support extended beyond his personal contributions. As Chairman of the organizing committee, he made a few strategic calls to his influential network of friends, raising an additional UGX 30 million. His efforts brought together prominent figures such as Dr. Kenneth Omona, Minister of State for Northern Uganda; Calvin Echodu, Soroti City West NRM flag bearer; Ambassador Nelson Oceger, Uganda’s Ambassador to Egypt; General Charles Angina; General Elwelu; Caroline Angolere, Special Presidential Assistant on Political Affairs, State House; Otuko Augustine, Private Secretary to H.E. for Political Affairs, State House; John Paul Edoku, Registrar at the High Court; and Samuel Emiku, Under Secretary at Prisons. This group further solidified the event’s success with their contributions.
Notably, his close associate Calvin Echodu purchased two bulls for UGX 7 million and offered an additional UGX 10 million towards the same cause, further demonstrating the collaborative effort Peter Edeku Edopu spearheaded. His tireless work to support the community and the church reflected his leadership capabilities and deep commitment to the well-being of the people of Dakabela.
In his address, Edopu offered wise counsel to the newly wedded couples, urging them to honor their vows and resolve conflicts amicably. “Marriage is not a contract,” he reminded them. “When problems arise, sit and solve them together.” He also made a passionate appeal to the religious and traditional leaders present, calling on them to ensure that they continuously mobilize the community to engage in government developmental programs such as the Parish Development Model and Emyooga.
He emphasized that these initiatives are crucial for the wealth creation and economic empowerment of the local population, and their success depends on the involvement and guidance of trusted community leaders.
His Royal Highness Otaya, Won Ateker Me Kumam Otaya Rapheal also graced the occasion, expressing concern over the rising issue of poisoning among the Kumam and urging the community to remain vigilant. He emphasized the importance of unity and discouraged tribalism, particularly as the political season draws near, encouraging the people of Dakabela to vote for candidates who will bring positive change and development.
Papa Elasu, the Presidential Advisor and NRM Chairman for Soroti, also expressed his gratitude to the bishop for his continued presence and support for the people of Katine. He praised the community for wholeheartedly embracing Christianity and urged the bishop to always keep the local residents close to his heart. Elasu specifically requested that the bishop consider retaining Fr. Osire, acknowledging the priest’s outstanding work in the area. As a gesture of appreciation, Elasu contributed UGX 250,000 and gifted the bishop a cow during the concluding moments of the ceremony.