ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – H.E. Ambassador Rebecca Amuge Otengo, Uganda’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union (AU), has described President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s appointment of four ministers from the Lango sub-region as a positive development, urging the community to abandon internal divisions and speak with one voice.
In an interview with QFM Radio, Ambassador Otengo addressed the recent cabinet reshuffle, which saw key figures from Lango assume significant roles. She dismissed any notion that the region had been unfairly treated, stating that the appointments reflect individual merit and long-standing service to the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Defending Hon. Sam Engola
Ambassador Otengo singled out Hon. Sam Engola, the Minister for Disaster and Relief, as a prime example of loyalty and grassroots impact. She noted that his appointment is well-deserved, given his historical role in the region.
“Hon. Sam Engola has been very instrumental in development, even when he was not a minister,” Otengo said. She recalled that after Engola lost an election and was left out of government, he did not retreat but instead remained close to the community, helping many people directly.
She further revealed that Engola is one of the founding members of the NRM in Lango, crediting him with bringing the movement to the region in its early days.
On Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng (Government Chief Whip)
Regarding the appointment of Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng as Government Chief Whip—replacing Hon. Denis Hamson Obua—Ambassador Otengo argued the move was strategic. She explained that Dr. Aceng, who spent ten years in the health ministry, needed broader administrative experience.
“Her appointment is to let her know how many ministries work,” Otengo stated.
She also weighed in on the political fate of Hon. Denis Obua, who was appointed Presidential Advisor. According to Otengo, had Obua won his election, he would have retained a ministerial portfolio. She noted that Obua has done significant good for both the people and the NRM, but when the election was pushed ahead, negative reports emerged—specifically criticizing Obua for organizing a thanksgiving prayer.
“Obua is very good,” she emphasized, lamenting what she called unfair criticism.
Unity and Regional Representation
In a candid call for cohesion, Ambassador Otengo urged the Lango community to emulate other regions by learning to “talk and walk one language.” She pointed out a glaring disparity: among all the NRM regional vice chairpersons, only Hon. Denis Obua is not a minister.
Opposition and Youth Appointments
The Ambassador also defended the appointment of Santa Alum Ogwang as State Minister for Economic Monitoring in the Office of the President. She said the role demonstrates that the NRM maintains a good working relationship with the opposition, adding that Ogwang has served both opposition and NRM members well.
Finally, addressing the appointment of Dr. Mercy Faith Lakisa as State Minister for Youth and Children, Otengo said the young minister now needs mentorship. She urged the youth to rally behind Dr. Lakisa and give her the necessary support to succeed.
