Rev. Fr. Raphael Lobere of the Kotido Diocese has publicly sought forgiveness on behalf of the Karamojong community for the pain and atrocities inflicted on the Iteso people.
The priest made the appeal during Mass at Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish in Soroti Catholic Diocese on Sunday morning.
He used the platform to emphasize healing, forgiveness, and unity among the Ateker peoples.
Fr. Lobere’s address to the congregation acknowledged the historical wounds that have strained relations between the Karamojong and Iteso communities.
“I know my people in the past caused pain to you. And I know many of you have that pain. To the extent that when you see a person like me, you recall those pains,” Fr. Lobere admitted.
He continued, “I want to ask for forgiveness. I want you to release us.”
His words resonated with the congregation, many of whom have been personally affected by the inter-communal conflicts that have plagued the region.
The priest also emphasized the importance of unity among the Ateker people, a collective term for the Iteso, Karamojong, Turkana, and other related ethnic groups.
He urged the congregation to embrace forgiveness and work toward peace, highlighting their shared humanity and spiritual connection.
“And I pray for unity amongst the Ateker people so that they catch up with the other governments in the world,” Fr. Lobere said.
“Whether you’re from which tribe, we are all one. We come from God, and we shall return to God.”
He also reminded the faithful of the shared responsibility to build a cohesive and peaceful community.
“That’s why I think there is unity in diversity. And then there’s diversity in unity,” he said.
“Whether we fight or do what, we must all know that we are the body of Christ, and we must build this Holy body of Christ.”
The call for unity comes at a critical time when historical grievances and cycles of conflict have hindered social and economic progress in the region.
Fr. Lobere emphasized the need for collective healing to foster development and harmony.
“We have a chance to understand the unity that is in this tribe. We must catch up with the rest of the world,” he implored, urging the congregation to rise above the divisions that have long defined their communities.
Many attendees expressed gratitude for Fr. Lobere’s bold and sincere appeal, with some noting that it marked a significant step toward healing and restoring trust between the two communities.
As the Ateker people continue to grapple with their shared history, Fr. Lobere’s message of forgiveness and unity serves as a beacon of hope for a future where they can coexist peacefully and work together toward a brighter tomorrow.
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