Mao Reveals Cordial Ties with Speaker Among Despite Political Differences

The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, has called for civility in Uganda’s political space, revealing that he maintains communication with the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Annet Among, despite their political differences.

Mao made the remarks on Tuesday while speaking at the burial of Mzee Nathan L’Okori Adiyo, the father of former Speaker Jacob Oulanyah. The burial took place at the deceased’s ancestral home in Ayom Lony Village, Lalogi Sub-county in Omoro District. Addressing mourners, Mao dismissed perceptions of hostility among political leaders, noting that dialogue remains essential even among those with differing views.

He emphasized the need for what he termed “political hygiene,” urging leaders to avoid divisive and confrontational politics and to promote respectful engagement across political lines.

Mao noted that the death of L’Okori had brought leaders together across political divides, describing the late patriarch as a unifying figure. Mao’s remarks come at a time he has declared his bid to contest for the position of Speaker of Parliament following his recent election as Member of Parliament for Laroo-Pece Division in Gulu City. At least five legislators have reportedly expressed interest in the race.

At the burial, several leaders paid tribute to L’Okori, describing him as a principled man who valued education and promoted unity. The Bishop of Lango Diocese, Alfred Olwa, told mourners that the deceased left a lasting legacy at national, district, and community levels through his contributions to the church and the education of his children. He urged the public to emulate such acts of service.

“We want to salute our elders who have given land for the church, which is also being used for a school and a hospital,” Bishop Olwa said. Lt Gen Charles Otema Awany noted that the deceased prioritized unity, which helped foster strong ties between the Acholi and Lango sub-regions. He said L’Okori deliberately avoided tribal divisions and promoted cohesion.

President Yoweri Museveni, in a condolence message delivered by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, praised the late patriarch for raising a responsible and service-oriented family. “On behalf of the government, the NRM party, and on my own behalf, I convey heartfelt sympathies to his family upon losing a father and grandfather. I want to recognize his role in shaping his children and grandchildren to become responsible citizens and leaders in the community,” Museveni said in the message.

The President noted that L’Okori instilled strong values and discipline in his family, reflected in the public service of his son, the late Oulanyah. “His son served with commitment and patriotism as a Member of Parliament and Speaker. I am glad that family members are carrying on the legacy of service to the people,” the message added. Museveni also contributed Shs15 million towards the burial.

Mzee L’Okori passed away on March 20 at St Mary’s Hospital, Lacor, in Gulu City after suffering from respiratory complications. Meanwhile, local leaders renewed calls for the government to fulfill its pledge to complete the residence of the late Oulanyah, following his death on March 20, 2022, in Seattle, United States.

Responding to the concerns, Tayebwa acknowledged the delay but assured mourners that the matter would be addressed. “I think the issue here has been on strategy, how to implement it, and we have agreed to go back to Kampala, meet with the Speaker and the President, and agree on the right strategy of implementing whatever was promised, and we are going to do that,” Tayebwa said.