By Derrick Omoding
- Teso: His Highness Papa Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng Condemns Destruction of Cultural Sites
His Highness Papa Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng, the paramount chief of the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), has condemned the actions of Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu, who recently destroyed cultural sites in Katakwi District.
Speaking on Saturday after an ICU council meeting held at the cultural office, Emorimor described Lt. Gen. Elwelu’s actions as a direct assault on the heritage and traditions of the Iteso people.
“These cultural sites have been vital to the Iteso community for over a thousand years. They serve as places where youth undergo initiation into adulthood, a practice central to our way of life,” Emorimor stated.
Lt. Gen. Elwelu reportedly destroyed the cultural sites, claiming they were demonic as revealed by a prophecy.
“Elwelu’s actions are not only demonic but also uncultured. I question why his so-called spirits are waging war against the Iteso. How can he destroy our cultural sites while maintaining a shrine at his own home?” the paramount chief said.
Emorimor also questioned the validity of the general’s religious claims.
“How many churches and bishops are there in Uganda, and since when has any of them prophesied that these cultural sites have brought disaster upon us?” he asked, refuting the basis of the general’s actions.
The paramount chief further announced that the ICU would take legal action against Lt. Gen. Elwelu and confirmed that consultations with their legal team had already begun.