đ Soroti bishop accuses politicians of failing fight against gangs
The bishop, who was once mistaken for a politician and targeted by the gangs, urged communities to conduct activities in daylight and return home before dark.
Soroti Catholic Diocese bishop Joseph Eciru Oliach says he directed that all church functions end by 6:00pm to stop youth from storming events at night, but some politicians continue to sponsor late-night drinking and dancing, fueling crime (File photo)
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Soroti Catholic Diocese bishop Joseph Eciru Oliach has accused some politicians of undermining his efforts to curb gang groups in Teso region, especially the gatecrashers locally known as Okadibong.
Eciru says he directed that all church functions end by 6:00pm to stop youth from storming events at night, but some politicians continue to sponsor late-night drinking and dancing, fueling crime.
The bishop, who was once mistaken for a politician and targeted by the gangs, urged communities to conduct activities in daylight and return home before dark.
His remarks were echoed by Joseph Opule, representing Vice President Jessica Alupo, who warned that late-night gatherings expose youths to criminal behaviour.
Toroma County MP Joseph Andrew Koluo also linked excessive drinking to domestic violence.
Toroma County Member of Parliament aspirant Engineer Paul Malinga, however, said events should simply be well planned and parents must take responsibility.
At the same function in Kapujan parish, VP Alupo contributed shs1.5 million, rice, and soap for each of the 332 confirmed children, while MP Koluo donated a bull and fuel for the clergy.
Local church leader Rose Ayomo and teacher Emmanuel Opio supported the bishop, pointing to the effects of drinking on families, food shortages, and security.
Emmanuel Opio, a teacher at Adodoi-Kapujan Primary School, appreciated the bishop's words, sharing that many uninvited guests often travel over 10 kilometres to attend events, particularly traditional marriages that extend past 6 PM.