Tearful Farewell To Fallen Kotido LC3 Chairman As Community Calls For Peace And Security

By Richard Onapatum

Kotido, Uganda – The late LC3 Chairman, Lokainon Mauro Lotyang aged 39yrs dedicated leader and champion of community development, was laid to rest in a somber ceremony attended by hundreds of mourners. The chairman leaves behind five wives and 34 children, a testament to his commitment to family and community.

The ceremony, held at the chairman’s ancestral home, was a poignant reminder of the impact one individual can have on a community. Leaders from across the region, including Lonya Peter, Chairperson of the Association of LC3, Brigade Commander 405 David Byaruhanga, LCV Lotee Paul Komol, and RDC Charles Ichogor, gathered to pay their respects.

Lonya Peter delivered a heartfelt eulogy, praising the deceased’s tireless efforts to improve the lives of his constituents. “We have lost a true servant leader,” Peter said. “His dedication to our community will never be forgotten.” Peter expressed remorse and concern for the safety of the deceased’s family, citing previous incidents and requesting government protection.

Brigade Commander 405 David Byaruhanga condemned the killing, promising to bring the suspects to justice. “We know the perpetrators, and we will not rest until they are apprehended,” Byaruhanga assured. He revealed that the suspects, Daudi and Locho, along with seven counterparts, are known to possess guns and have been implicated in previous incidents.

LCV Lotee Paul Komol appealed for relief for the deceased’s family, emphasizing the importance of supporting those left behind. “We must come together to ensure the well-being of this family,” Komol urged. He highlighted the chairman’s role in promoting peace and development, citing the 700m irrigation scheme project at Nagirigiroi, which was halted due to insecurity.

Former RDC Kotido, Ambrose Onoria, urged the community to hand over guns and let security forces protect them. “You have killed your own son, who worked tirelessly for your benefit,” Onoria said. “Let us work together to restore peace.” Onoria reflected on his working relationship with the deceased, describing him as a “good friend and son.”

RDC Charles Ichogor vowed to take action against the perpetrators and stressed the importance of LC3s as links between the government and the community. “We will not tolerate violence against our leaders,” Ichogor emphasized. He announced plans to:

• Increase valley dams and cattle distribution
• Plant trees and promote commercial agriculture
• Eradicate poverty

Ichogor appealed to the community to return guns peacefully, promising exposure visits to Western Uganda to change mindsets. He praised the Karachuna community for voluntarily returning guns, citing it as a positive step towards peace.

Church leaders were urged to pray for the community and promote love and unity. Parents were encouraged to take a lead role in bringing their children to order.

As the community mourns the loss of their leader, they also seek justice and protection from the authorities. The late LC3 Chairman’s legacy will continue to inspire community development, and his memory will serve as a catalyst for peace.