Pader religious leaders holds peace prayers before LCV swearing-in

18 May 2026, 9:46 am

By Geoffrey Okwong

Religious leaders from different faith denominations gathered at the district headquarters in Pader for peace prayers ahead of the swearing-in ceremony of newly elected district leaders.

The prayers, organized ahead of Tuesday’s ceremony, brought together clerics from Anglican, Catholic, Muslim and Pentecostal faiths to pray for peace, unity and stability in the district and the country.

Speaking during the prayer gathering, the LCV Chairperson-elect of Pader, Alfred Akena, said the prayers were not intended to target any individual but to seek God’s guidance and protection for the district’s leadership and institutions.

Akena said the gathering was aimed at fighting “the spirit of darkness” and promoting peaceful coexistence among leaders and the people of Pader.

He noted that while prayers had been ongoing in different places, strengthening collective prayers ahead of the leadership transition would help create a more peaceful environment.

Describing himself as a man of peace, Akena assured residents that his administration would prioritize peace and unity, urging the public not to fear the political transition.

Akena further revealed plans to establish a forum bringing together religious and cultural leaders to discuss matters affecting the district and guide his administration.

Meanwhile, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Pader, Suzanne Adong, thanked the religious leaders for organizing the prayers, saying beginning important activities with God was essential.

Pastor David Ocira of Community Church also offered prayers for the incoming leadership, asking God to grant wisdom, strength and courage to district leaders as they assume office.

In a prayer directed particularly at the incoming LCV Chairperson-elect, Pastor Ocira asked for divine guidance, protection and wisdom in leadership, drawing reference from the Biblical story of Joshua after the death of Moses.

He further asked God to guide district leaders in implementing government programmes and serving the people with wisdom and integrity.

Pastor Ocira also prayed for divine protection and intervention over the district, asking God to guide leaders throughout their term in office.

Bishop Donato Okumu, the overseer of Faith Mission Churches in Agago and Pader, called for prayers focused on good health, quality service delivery and integrity among leaders.

Speaking during the prayer gathering, Bishop Okumu urged religious leaders to pray for the incoming district leadership to remain healthy and capable of effectively serving the community.

The bishop also called for prayers against corruption and other negative influences that could derail service delivery and development.

The prayer team was led by Rev. Denis Okot of New Covenant Church, Rev. Denis Onen of Pentecostal Assemblies of God (PAG), and Pastor Palaber Ambrose of Baptist Church. Others included George Amanyangole of Divine Family Church, George Oloya of Zion Church and Apostle Alex Olara of Faith Mission Church.

The swearing-in ceremony is expected to be conducted by Martins Kirya, the Chief Magistrate of Pader.

The ceremony, expected to attract different officials and invited guests, will include the swearing-in of the district chairperson and councillors, as well as the election of the new district speaker.