His Royal Highness Papa Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng, the Paramount Chief of the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), has firmly warned members of his cabinet and councilors against engaging in partisan politics.
He emphasized the need for neutrality, unity, and an unwavering commitment to the ICU’s cultural mission.
Speaking during the ICU Council sitting held today at the Union’s headquarters along Serere Road, opposite Soroti Hotel in Soroti City, Emorimor opened the session by welcoming all councilors with high honors and appreciation for their time and dedication to the institution.
He began by seeking forgiveness for the delay in convening the meeting, citing key engagements such as the ongoing construction of Ore Iteso and regional tours that had contributed to the postponement.
Notable dignitaries in attendance included Her Royal Majesty Akaliait Juliet Among, the full ICU cabinet, cultural councilors, and five delegates from each district in the Teso Sub-region.
The high level council sitting focused on evaluating the Union’s performance, addressing the welfare of the Iteso people, and planning for future cultural programs.
The Emorimor strongly addressed the growing issue of political involvement among some ICU officials, especially in light of the recent NRM party primaries that have heightened tensions across the region ahead of the 2026 general elections.
“It is politics time but as ministers and councilors of the Iteso Cultural Union, you must not take sides, the cultural institution must remain impartial. If I find any ICU leader acting as an agent of a political candidate, I will not hesitate to direct the Ekirigi (Prime Minister) to replace them.” Emorimor noted
He continued, “Our institution cannot support any candidate or engage in partisan behavior shouting slogans like ‘oyeeee’ or publicly endorsing politicians goes against our role. We are here to advise and guide our people with neutrality.”
Emorimor further urged ICU leaders to uphold traditional values, remain exemplary in their conduct, and prioritize the Union’s cultural mandate over personal political ambitions.
“I will not tolerate individuals who choose politics over culture,” he warned, drawing applause and visible agreement from many councilors.
He addressed recent changes in his cabinet, noting that some reshuffles were made not out of hate or personal differences, but to provide equal leadership opportunities and to remove those whose political engagements conflicted with ICU’s principles.
“As your leader for the past three years, I assure you that any replacements are in line with our vision for growth and discipline. Let no one feel hated. We still love and need everyone committed to our cause,” he emphasized.
In addition, he appreciated recent government engagements, including the Minister for Gender’s Hon Betty Amongi visit, which recognized the ICU as one of Uganda’s strongest cultural institutions. The Union recently received two vehicles as part of a government support initiative.
The Council meeting also resolved to set up a disciplinary committee to investigate future reports of political partisanship and to intensify civic education to reinforce the nonpartisan role of the ICU.
Emorimor concluded by declaring the meeting officially opened, encouraging peace, unity, and a renewed focus on culture.
“Let us work together, uphold our heritage, and rise above the divisions brought by politics. The people of Teso look to us for leadership – let us not fail them,” he said.
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