A storm of controversy has engulfed the Ateker Festival, with allegations that 200 million Ugandan shillings intended for the cultural event were diverted to fund political activities by Hon. Betty Amongi Arena, the UPC Minister and MP for Oyam South. This revelation has sparked outrage, casting a shadow over what was supposed to be a celebration of unity and cultural heritage.
According to reliable sources, Hon. Amongi misappropriated the festival’s funds to strengthen her political campaign. The festival’s budget allocation revealed that each Awitong (cultural leader) was to receive 350,000 UGX plus transport. However, the bulk of the money allegedly went to her political network.
Her media team members reportedly received 1.5 million UGX each, including transport allowances, while musicians led by Blood Moon were allocated 2 million UGX each. Even more startling, close associates and campaign team members, such as Dina Bua, Okello Allan (Speaker of Lira City West), Ajoka Alango, Caesar Ivan Okello, and Akello Lydia, were each handed 10 million UGX.
In a surprising twist, Abudul George, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Otuke District and a known NRM figure, is alleged to have received 50 million UGX to aid in the coordination of activities for Hon. Amongi. This collaboration across political lines has raised eyebrows, as it suggests a calculated effort to consolidate power by blurring party loyalties.
Cultural leaders who were the festival’s cornerstone were sidelined, receiving far less than promised. Prominent UPC figures were reportedly given only 500,000 UGX each, a mere fraction of what was disbursed to Amongi’s political allies. This disparity has been condemned as a blatant misuse of public funds and a betrayal of cultural values.
Sources also claim that Vice President Rt. Maj. Jesica Alupo Epel was aware of the scheme, sparking further outrage. While the Ateker Festival was intended to unite communities and celebrate shared heritage, its politicization has led to accusations of corruption and favoritism.
The Ateker Festival scandal has triggered widespread condemnation, with calls for transparency and accountability from both the UPC and the NRM. Activists and community leaders have decried the exploitation of cultural events for political gain.
“This is an insult to our culture and people. The Ateker Festival is about unity, not political agendas,” said a disgruntled community leader.
The scandal has intensified demands for an independent audit of the festival’s budget and the resignation of those implicated. Critics argue that allowing such misuse of funds undermines public trust and damages cultural institutions.
What was meant to be a celebration of identity has instead become a cautionary tale of political interference, leaving many questioning how public funds are managed in Uganda. The Ateker Festival’s legacy now hangs in the balance, its purpose overshadowed by allegations of greed and corruption. The festival is meant to start from 26th – 29th November, 2024 in Soroti City.