Okii Raki Okwero Cobo leadership crisis deepens as faction calls fresh election

21 August 2026, 3:51 pm

By Frank Oyugi and Bobson Opio

Lira, Uganda — A leadership dispute within the Okii Raki Okwero Cobo clan has escalated into an open conflict, with a breakaway faction calling for fresh elections for the clan head (Awitong), directly challenging the nine-month-old leadership of Emmy Joe Odongo.

Faction moves to oust incumbent

Alfred Ogwal, who claims to chair the electoral commission of the dissenting faction, confirmed that nominations have been concluded and that two candidates — Major Oyar Tonny Abisilam and Shaban Alunga Atepo — are in the race.

Campaigns are scheduled to begin across various locations, setting the stage for a high-stakes contest that could deepen divisions within the clan.

The faction’s move represents a direct challenge to Odongo, who was declared clan head unopposed in December 2025 following the removal of Shaban Alunga Atepo after 15 years in office.

Incumbent leadership rejects fresh election

However, the established leadership under Emmy Joe Odongo has rejected the call for a fresh election, insisting that he is the legitimate and recognised clan head.

Benard Aliro, the official chairperson of the Okii Raki Okwero Cobo Electoral Commission that oversaw Odongo’s declaration, dismissed the rival faction’s efforts as a waste of time.

“There will be no more election for a new clan head. The next election will be held after five years, and for now, the clan is moving on well,” Aliro said.

David Ogweng, the second deputy clan head, reinforced this position, saying the clan was stable and calm under Odongo’s leadership, with no further demands for financial contributions from members.

Calls for unity amid tensions

Thomas Omoo Opio Omara, the Okii Raki clan executive in charge of land, appealed to wealthy clan members residing in Lira City to desist from causing confusion and disorganisation within the community.

Geoffrey Ojok Opio, the clan spokesperson, also dismissed reports of a fresh election as the work of former leaders who, he alleged, had failed to account for funds collected over the past 17 years.

The dispute highlights deeper divisions within the clan, including allegations of financial impropriety and questions over the legitimacy of Odongo’s rise to power. It remains unclear whether the rival faction will proceed with its planned election despite firm opposition from the incumbent leadership and the electoral commission that oversaw Odongo’s declaration.