By Ceaser Okello, Radio Wa
The Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, has called for calm and peaceful participation in the upcoming 2026 general elections, as the Lango Civil Society Network raises alarm over persistent election-related violence in Lira City.
The call was made during an election stakeholders’ engagement meeting held yesterday at Margarita Palace Hotel, organized by the Lango Civil Society Network. The Bishop’s message—delivered by Rev. Fr. Isaac Ojok, the Diocesan Secretary of Communication—emphasized that every citizen has the right to participate in elections free from fear, intimidation, or manipulation.
He stated that the Catholic Church in Lira will continue offering civic education, community engagement, and moral guidance through parishes, institutions, and other faith-based structures. The Church, he said, is committed to promoting non-violence, mutual understanding, and constructive dialogue among Christian communities.
Bishop Wanok urged political actors to conduct themselves responsibly, respect their opponents, and avoid actions that may escalate tensions. He further appealed to security forces, especially the police, to remain impartial, professional, and compliant with human rights standards to strengthen public trust.
During the meeting, James Acar, Manager of the Lango Civil Society Network, shared findings from a 2021 post-election survey in Lango which showed that 75% of respondents reported incidents such as physical assault, intimidation, property destruction, theft, arrests, rape, and domestic violence during the election period. He warned that similar patterns could recur in 2026 given the violent incidents reported during recent primary elections and Lira City polls.
Acar condemned all acts of violence, saying they undermine free and fair elections. He called for urgent and long-term interventions to manage and reduce large-scale political violence as the country approaches the 2026 polls.
The 4th Deputy Prime Minister of Tekwaro me Lango, George Ojwang Opota, expressed concern over increasing divisions within Lango—spanning political, regional, and cultural spheres. He described Lango as a community that can be difficult to unite but urged all stakeholders to speak with one voice, emphasizing peace as the foundation for development.
The District Police Commander of Lira City CPS, SSP Apollo Kyangungu, assured the public that police will follow the law and maintain order to guarantee a peaceful election period in Lira City.
The engagement brought together civil society groups, cultural leaders, political actors, and members of the clergy, all pledging to champion peace and uphold democratic values during the 2026 general elections.
With religious, cultural, civil society, and security leaders aligning their voices, the Lango Sub-Region is being strongly urged to reject violence and embrace peaceful participation. The success of the 2026 elections, they emphasized, will depend on collective responsibility, tolerance, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
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