Awitong Shaban Alunga declared victorious as High Court clears path for unity

18 September 2026, 6:16 pm

By Frank Oyugi

Lira City — The High Court in Lira has cleared the way for administrative activities of the Okii Raki Okwero Ocobo clan after pending injunction applications against the election organisers were set aside.

The proceedings, presided over by Justice Sarah Langa Oruchi, addressed a legal dispute that had sought to halt the clan election process and prevent key leadership contenders from participating.

The case involved applicants Odongo Emmy Joe and William Onyanga, who filed applications against Electoral Commission Chairperson Alfred Ogwal and candidate Shaban Alunga Atepo. Following court proceedings, the restrictive orders were disposed of, while the main suit was referred for court-annexed mediation to resolve the underlying governance grievances.

With the injunctions no longer in effect, the clan electoral exercise proceeded to its conclusion under the direction of Electoral Commission Chairperson Alfred Ogwal.

The election was held at Gracious Palace Hotel, where Ogwal declared Shaban Alunga Atepo the elected Clan Chief (Awitong) after he secured 2,596 votes out of 3,261 registered voters, defeating his rival, Tonny Oyar Abicilom.

Following the declaration, legal counsel Ponsiano Okello administered the oath of office, formally ushering in the new clan administration.

Speaking shortly after taking office, Awitong Shaban Alunga Atepo outlined a development agenda for his chiefdom, with unity among clan members at the centre of his leadership priorities.

He said his administration would work to heal divisions arising from the election and promote unity among all clan members.

According to Atepo, unity will provide a foundation for poverty eradication and wealth creation initiatives across the sub-region.

His administration also plans to focus on improving education standards, securing clan land, strengthening health services and promoting peaceful coexistence with neighbouring Lango clans.

Despite the ongoing friction, rival faction leader Emmy Joe Odongo reiterated his commitment to supporting the wider clan membership throughout the transition process.

With the court injunction cancelled and the main suit now proceeding to structured mediation, the newly declared leadership under Awitong Shaban Alunga Atepo has assumed office, while the two factions engage in court-guided discussions aimed at restoring long-term stability and harmony within the Okii Raki Okwero Ocobo clan.