Lango, Northern Dailys
On December 10, 2024, a letter allegedly written by Hon. Sam Engola, Senior Presidential Advisor for the Lango Sub-region, began circulating on social media platforms across the region. The letter, which lacked a date, stamp and forged signature, was addressed to the President of Uganda, purportedly requesting intervention in an ongoing cultural leadership conflict in Lango, particularly urging the cancellation of Dr. Eng. Odongo Okune’s coronation by Justice Odoki.
Upon investigation, Northern Dailys reached out to Hon. Engola to verify the authenticity of this letter. In a swift and unequivocal response, Hon. Engola categorically denied any involvement, stating that he had not authored such a letter nor engaged in matters pertaining to the Lango cultural leadership dispute.
Hon. Engola emphasized that his maturity and experience as a Senior Presidential Advisor preclude him from engaging in such unprofessional conduct. “I have never written any letter to the President regarding the Lango cultural leadership conflict,” he stated firmly. He attributed the letter to individuals seeking to sow discord and perpetuate conflict within the Lango community.
“These are the works of hypocrites who do not wish for peace in Lango. I have never indulged in any legal matters currently being handled by the courts, especially the High Court,” he added.
Engola wondered why the new entrants in Erute South politics trying to get cheap popularity in Lango Cultural controversy to get gain at the expense of others. Some NRM carders are trying their best to use some UPC opportunists to taint me and others but culture is not mixed with politics.
They forged my signature on some allegations early this year to the office of the President, and the CCTV camera exposed them, this time again they have forged my signature claiming the nonsense in the letter that i don’t own.
Hon. Engola urged the people of Lango to remain calm and disregard the fraudulent letter, which he described as being written in bad faith. “This is a critical time for us to unite as a community and resolve our differences peacefully. I appeal to everyone to disown this letter and focus on fostering harmony and reconciliation,” he said.
The suspicious letter raises questions about its authenticity, given the absence of a date, signature, and official confirmation. The circulation of such misinformation highlights the growing issue of the misuse of social media platforms to spread falsehoods and escalate tensions.
Hon. Engola called upon the relevant authorities to investigate the source of the letter and hold accountable those responsible for spreading it. Such actions, he said, undermine efforts to bring peace and stability to the region
The controversy surrounding the alleged letter underscores the need for vigilance and discernment when consuming information, particularly on social media. Hon. Engola’s response serves as a reminder that leaders and citizens alike must work together to promote peace and dispel harmful rumors.
As Lango navigates its cultural leadership challenges, unity and truth remain paramount.