Teso Leaders Seek Gen. Saleh's Intervention for Anita Among

The Paramount Chief of Teso, Paul Sande Etomeileng Emolot, accompanied by cultural leaders, Members of Parliament, and elders, recently met with General Caleb Akandwanaho, widely known as Salim Saleh. The purpose of this gathering, held at Gen. Saleh’s residence in Kapeeka, Nakaseke District, was to seek his intervention in the complex situation surrounding former Speaker Anita Annet Among.

The delegation included senior officials of the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), clan elders, and local leaders. Five Members of Parliament, including Emmanuel Omoding, Vice Chairperson of the Teso Parliamentary Group (TPG), were also present. They conveyed concerns about the difficulties Among is facing due to ongoing investigations.

The Teso leaders specifically requested the unfreezing of Ms. Among’s bank accounts to allow her to manage personal and family needs. They also sought permission for her to continue attending parliamentary sessions and to visit her constituency in Bukedea to fulfill her constitutional obligations during the investigation period.

Emorimor emphasized the importance of reconciliation and national unity, urging Gen. Saleh to leverage his influence to facilitate a peaceful resolution through dialogue rather than confrontation.

In response, Gen. Saleh assured the delegation that the issues were receiving attention at the highest government levels. He stressed that the current challenges were not solely criminal but also encompassed institutional and personal aspects, affecting the broader context of the 11th Parliament. He appealed to the Teso community to remain calm, avoid turning the matter into a regional or tribal issue, and allow the established processes to unfold.

Saleh acknowledged that While Among might have faced difficulties, he suggested that the circumstances of her assuming office and the parliamentary environment contributed to some challenges. He mentioned ongoing communication with the former Speaker, offering guidance and reassuring the delegation that she is not the first leader to encounter such scrutiny.

He further advised against viewing the situation as solely personal corruption, suggesting it involved institutional leadership and possibly a misunderstanding of “Musevenomics.” Gen. Saleh concluded by urging patience and prayer, expressing confidence in a resolution through high-level government dialogue and consultations.

This report is based on information from Nile Post.