The Iteso Cultural Institution has stepped in to defuse rising tensions between a section of Teso musicians and social media influencers following a violent altercation that erupted during the recent Yona Chanlee concert.
The incident, involving celebrated Teso music icon Paul Ikwap, popularly known as Mark P, and social media influencer Auma Jesca, known online as Teso Girl, has sparked heated debates across digital platforms.
The storm surrounding the confrontation has not only captured the attention of fans and online users but has now reached the highest cultural office in the Teso region, His Royal Highest Emorimor Paul Sande Etimeileng Emolot has expressed grave concern over the incident and its implications for the cultural and social fabric of the Iteso community.
Speaking to the press via phone, Deputy Information Minister Stephen Ojacor confirmed that the Iteso Paramount Chief has taken keen interest in the matter. “The escalating social media exchanges and legal threats have attracted the attention of Papa Emorimor and the entire cultural cabinet, including members of the diaspora,” Ojacor said.
According to Ojacor, Emorimor has instructed the Office of the Prime Minister to initiate a reconciliation process. Deputy Minister for Tourism, Hon. Joseph Ojatum, has been tasked with organizing a high-level dialogue aimed at restoring harmony and encouraging constructive engagement among artists, bloggers, journalists, and media personalities.
“The music industry of Teso carries the cultural heritage and identity of our Iteso culture,” Ojacor emphasized. “Music in Teso is not merely entertainment; it preaches peace, unity, and cultural pride. We cannot allow it to be derailed by misunderstandings or individual conflicts.”
The dialogue meeting Is scheduled for Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Hide Park in Soroti City as the forum will bring together key stakeholders from across the region’s creative industry, It is envisioned as a space to iron out grievances, promote understanding, and chart a new course of collaboration and professionalism in Teso’s creative sector.
Ojatum echoed these sentiments, noting that the recent conflict had stirred deep emotions within the community. “We acknowledge the concerns, emotions, and narratives currently circulating on social media and within our communities,” he said.
“As leaders and custodians of culture and progress, we cannot allow division or misunderstanding to erode the unity that binds us as a people.”
He further described the creative industry in Teso as one of the most vibrant expressions of the region’s heritage and talent. “It thrives best in an atmosphere of mutual respect, collaboration, and professionalism. As a cultural institution, our pride is to see the industry growing, as it is also a direct boost to our tourism sector.”
Observers say the decision by the cultural leadership to mediate is a timely intervention, Social media has been awash with inflammatory posts and counter-accusations from fans of both Mark P and Teso Girl, with some exchanges escalating to threats of legal action.
The forthcoming dialogue is expected to focus on building a framework for conflict resolution and media ethics within the entertainment industry, as well as encouraging artists and influencers to play a positive role in community development.
As the countdown to the meeting begins, community leaders are calling on all parties to approach the discussion in good faith and with the shared goal of preserving Teso’s cultural integrity and artistic potential.
“The healing of our industry begins with dialogue,” Ojacor concluded. “We must protect and promote our talent, not tear it apart.”
