Alur kingdom celebrates historic reconciliation of Okuru, Paidha-Omua chiefdoms

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Hundreds of Alur subjects, including youth, elders, men, and women, gathered in jubilation to witness a long-awaited and historic moment in Alur history: the cultural reconciliation between the Okuru and Paidha-Omua chiefdoms, held on October 24, 2025.

The two leaders made history by extending olive branches to each other, ending a centuries-old divide that had its roots in the time of their great-grandfathers.

The reconciliation ceremony took place along the sacred banks of Leda Stream in Owenjo chiefdom, Jangokoro subcounty, Zombo district.

Ubimu Phillip Rauni Olarker III, the Alur king and Leb Tong (spearhead) of Okuru chiefdom, joined Rwoth Emmanuel Kermit Angia of Paidha-Omua chiefdom to perform the sacred Alur ritual known as Thumu Caak. This ancient rite, rooted in royal tradition, marked a turning point in the relationship between the two chiefdoms.

According to the Alur kingdom’s prime minister, Prince Lawrence Opar Angala, the Thumu Caak ritual dates back to the 17th century, following the separation of two Alur princes, Ngira II and Magwar, sons of Rwoth Omyer Dhyang. Ngira II became the Leb Tong of Nyipir, ruling over Okuru, while Magwar took leadership over Okebu after deposing their paramount chief, Parathagu. Their descendants today are represented by Ubimu Rauni III and Rwoth Angia, respectively.

Premier Opar explained that past divisions were sealed through Ngulu Caak sacred oaths that required a reconciliation ceremony to lift the spiritual and cultural barriers between royal lineages. The Ngulu Caak oath binds the chiefs until peace is restored, allowing them to interact freely in all aspects of life and leadership.

The lifting of this oath now clears the way for the two royal brothers to cooperate fully, particularly ahead of Ubimu Rauni III’s 15th Coronation Anniversary on Friday, October 31, 2025, to be held in Paidha-Omua chiefdom, Paidha town council.

Rwoth Emmanuel Kermit Angia of Paidha-Omua Chiefdom expressed heartfelt joy: “This ceremony has set us free. From today, I can visit Kal Atyak without hesitation, and you, my brother the Ubimu, can come to Kal Omua. We will now discuss our matters together as one family.”

His declaration sparked ululations, clapping, and traditional Alur songs from the crowd.

Addressing the gathering, Ubimu Phillip Rauni Olarker III emphasised that unity and peace were now the way forward for the Alur Kingdom: “Today, we celebrate peace and unity. From this day forward, we shall walk together as one. God has placed me here to ensure progress for all Alur subjects.”

The reconciliation ceremony culminated with the two leaders embracing and planting banyan trees on either side of Leda Stream, a sacred symbol of enduring unity and peace.

Prince Lawrence Opar Angala described the ritual as both culturally and historically significant, saying it opens the path for cooperation across all Alur chiefdoms.

“This rite mirrors past reconciliations between Nyabongo and Gipir in Pakwach, Magwar and Ngira, and Rwoth Jalosiga and Rwoth Nason. It is an essential tradition that allows our leaders to coexist harmoniously."

The event drew deep emotional reactions from the people.

James Ubima, secretary of social services for Abanga subcounty, said, “I am blessed to witness this historic day. Unity is paramount, and I urge all Alur to emulate this gesture.”

Fulumena Winja, a 60-year-old from Uwenjo clan, added, “We grew up hearing that these two chiefs could never meet. I am overjoyed that this moment has finally come.”

For Sunday Wedunga of Jangokoro, the event fulfilled what once seemed like a myth: “We used to hear this story as if it were a riddle. Today, I have seen history come alive before my eyes.”

The reconciliation between the two royal houses not only restores ancient ties but also symbolises a new chapter of unity across the Alur kingdom, which encompasses 56 chiefdoms in Uganda and eight in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The momentous ceremony lays a strong foundation for peace, cooperation, and cultural revival as the Alur people prepare to celebrate the 15th Coronation Anniversary of Ubimu Phillip Rauni Olarker III on October 31, 2025, at Kyambogo University playground in Paidha town council, an event expected to draw thousands from across Alurland and beyond.