OMORO DISTRICT – The Speaker of Parliament has led heartfelt tributes to Mzee Nathan Okori, the beloved father of the late Rt Hon Jacob Oulanyah, who was laid to rest at the age of 97, describing him as a principled patriarch whose greatest legacy was the distinguished leader he raised.
In a moving statement, the Speaker expressed profound gratitude to all who gathered to honor Mzee Okori’s life, noting that while he personally came to know Mzee through the late former Speaker, the stories Jacob Oulanyah shared painted the picture of a remarkable man.
“The impression I have of him is shaped by the stories his son shared and the occasions on which I encountered him,” the Speaker said. “Mzee Nathan was indeed a remarkable individual. He raised his children with strong principles and placed great importance on education.”
The Speaker reflected that Mzee Okori’s legacy is most eloquently attested to by the achievements of his son, Jacob Oulanyah, a brilliant lawyer, legislator, and one of the nation’s most outstanding leaders.
“I am profoundly grateful to Mzee for bestowing upon us such a distinguished leader. This stands as a testament to his character and his dedication as a father,” he added.
The Speaker recalled the solemn pledge made following Jacob Oulanyah’s passing—together with the late leader’s friends and loved ones—to support the family he left behind.
“We pledged to support his family—his father, his children, and all who cared for him. I am thankful that we upheld this promise, doing everything within our power to ensure Mzee’s comfort and dignity, and that he was afforded a respectful farewell.”
Extending deepest condolences to the children, grandchildren, and all loved ones of the deceased, the Speaker assured the Okori family of enduring support.
In a direct appeal to the younger generation, the Speaker urged Andrew Ojok, his siblings, and the extended Okori family to preserve the legacy of the two distinguished men who preceded them.
“Uphold their names through your words and actions,” he charged.
Mzee Nathan Okori passed away at the age of 97, leaving behind a rich legacy of principled parenting and the indelible mark of a son who served Uganda with distinction until his untimely passing in 2022.
