Okwere Warns Against Hypocritical Reconciliation Among Teso Leaders

By Skika Reporter.

The newly elected Member of Parliament for Bukedea County, David Beecham Okwere, has challenged both incoming and outgoing political leaders to avoid what he described as hypocritical reconciliation if they are to promote genuine peace and unity across the Teso sub-region.

Okwere made the remarks during his inaugural speech at an engagement meeting that brought together newly elected Members of Parliament, LCV chairpersons, cultural leaders, and religious leaders at Soroti Hotel.

He emphasized that leaders at all levels should put God at the center of their lives and leadership, noting that true service to the people of Teso must be grounded in honesty, integrity, and faith.

According to Okwere, some political leaders resort to witchcraft as a solution to political challenges instead of seeking divine guidance and protection. He urged leaders to abandon such practices and embrace transparency and trust in God.

Sharing a personal experience, Okwere recounted the tragic killing of his father, Charles Paul Erongot, who was shot dead by armed assailants during a church service at St. Andrew’s Church in Malera, Bukedea County, on October 9, 1992. Okwere, who was 13 years old at the time, was also shot in the legs but survived.

“By that time, I felt so defenceless as my family was attacked and our home burned to ashes. I thought it was the end of me, but here I am today. Thanks be to the Almighty God,” he said.

Drawing from this experience, Okwere stressed that reconciliation, forgiveness, and unity must be genuine and demonstrated in action if leaders are to work together to improve the livelihoods of people in the Teso sub-region.

Meanwhile, the newly elected Woman Member of Parliament for Serere District, Easter Lucy Achom, echoed similar sentiments, calling on leaders to unite and collaborate for the sake of peace and development.

Achom also challenged women, particularly those in positions of influence, to uphold respect within their families.

She noted that some financially empowered women, including political leaders, tend to disrespect their husbands after attaining high-status positions, which she said contributes to the erosion of family values in communities.