By Our Reporter
The Minister for Information in the Iteso Cultural Union, Stephen Ojacor, has dismissed claims by Okadibong President Joseph Admin Opio that the recent reconciliation within the union sidelined the youth, describing the remarks as “misguided and reckless.”
Ojacor was responding to an opinion piece authored by Opio in which he argued that reconciliation within the cultural institution had benefited only elders while leaving young people feeling excluded. Opio claimed that unity achieved without active youth involvement was fragile and amounted to a “photo session” rather than genuine healing.
However, Ojacor rubbished the assertions, saying the reconciliation process was a carefully handled legal and cultural matter that did not require broader public consultations.
“The decision by the elders to reconcile did not require further consultations or reservations,” Ojacor said. “This was a court matter that went through proper mediation by the Deputy Registrar of Soroti High Court. It carried legal implications and therefore could not be subjected to public debate.”
He further criticized Opio’s tone and approach, branding him “highly undisciplined” for questioning the elders’ authority in managing sensitive cultural affairs.
“My brother Opio should watch his mouth clearly. It was not necessary for a reasonable person of his caliber to publish such uncultured views,” Ojacor stated.
The minister emphasized that reconciliation between the rival factions, one led by Papa William Aloch and the other under His Royal Highness Paul Sande Emolot (Papa Emorimor), was a historic milestone after years of internal wrangles that had threatened the stability of the cultural institution.
“The conflict stretched for years. Reaching reconciliation was not a simple event. It required wisdom, patience, and structured mediation. The elders handled it with maturity and foresight,” Ojacor noted.
He maintained that cultural disputes of such magnitude are traditionally handled by elders, arguing that young people may not fully grasp the depth and historical context of the disagreements.
“This matter is beyond the understanding of the youth and should therefore be left to the elders. As young people, we must be quick to learn from such developments and focus on the future that awaits us,” he added.
Ojacor also dismissed claims that the youth were abandoned after playing roles during the period of division. He said the leadership of ICU, under Papa Emorimor, has consistently invested in youth-focused programs aimed at securing long-term opportunities.
“His Royal Highness has been tirelessly working with the youth through vigorous programs,” Ojacor said. “We have an Education Fund and sponsorship programs where over 600 students have benefited in different universities and tertiary institutions.”
He highlighted that five government-sponsored slots had recently been secured for students at Soroti Flying School, among other institutions, describing it as evidence of the cultural leader’s commitment to empowering young people.
Additionally, Ojacor pointed to the launch of the Akaliait Development Foundation, an initiative specifically targeting the empowerment of girl children and shaping their future through education and mentorship.
He further revealed that ICU has negotiated employment opportunities through engagements with government and bilateral partners, creating openings for Iteso youth in various sectors.
“These are not empty promises. They are tangible programs already benefiting our young people. It is therefore unfair to suggest that reconciliation has ignored them,” he stressed.
Ojacor also criticized the Okadibong group, questioning its relevance and accusing some of its members of engaging in activities that alarm communities.
“Being president of the Okadibong group is not a license to attack cultural elders,” he said, adding that efforts are underway, in collaboration with religious leaders, to address concerns surrounding the group’s activities.
Despite the criticism, Ojacor concluded by reaffirming that the reconciliation was a victory for the entire Teso community and a necessary step toward stability and development.
“The elders deserve credit, not condemnation. Unity has been restored at the top, and that unity will cascade down. This is a foundation for long-term peace, not a temporary settlement,” he said.
As ICU turns a new chapter after years of division, its leadership insists that the focus must now shift from internal wrangles to development, with reconciliation serving as the cornerstone for a stronger, united institutions
