Olara Otunnu, the former president of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) party has said the murder of Archbishop Janani Loum by Idi Amin’s soldiers marked the beginning of a struggle that led to the end of the Ugandan dictator and his nine years of terror.
Addressing journalists ahead of the 40th commemoration of Archbishop Loum’s death at the Northern Uganda Media Club on Monday, Olara Otunnu said the murder of Archbishop Loum sparked anger across the world.
Olara Otunnu who is co- chair for the memorial prayers for the late Archbishop Loum described the late Archbishop as a modest and simple man who worked as a unifier.
The former Bishop of Northern Uganda diocese who succeeded Loum when he (Loum) was elected as Archbishop, the Rt Rev Benoni Ogwang -Abwang said Loum is a hero who should be emulated.
‘‘If Loum was alive he would have spoken for the poor,’’ said retired Rt Rev Benoni Ogwang- Abwang.
Bishop Ogwal-Abwang who lives in the United States said Loum gave his life to Christ and that the whole world is proud is of the Loum who was made saint in 2015.
At least 30, 000 celebrants are expected to travel to Kitgum district to the memorial prayers of Archbishop Loum who was killed on the order of former President Idi Amin Dada 40 years ago.
In 2015, the Anglican Church declared him a saint 38 years after his death.
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Your Excellency Ambassador Dr. Otunnu might consider to include in the infrastructure of the shrine to St Janani [a] pavilion [b] gift shops (employment of locals) and source of income for centre [c] cafes [d] Washrooms [e] school of excellence (Anglican CMS used to have real good teachers at Buddu, Gulu High (Pearce et al), I am sure good English Churchmen/semi retired teachers would oblige for stints of 2 yrs etc [f] Remember mrngo Hospital was one of the earliest if not the earliest Anglican run hospital in Uganda, Challenge them and ask how come only the catholics are helpin the locals at Lacor and Kalongo? Maybe this is your true calling for which you have been prepared by the Lord, to use your extensive network for a worthy cause. God Bless and maybe learn some real Acholi Dance this Time – not Nuer/Dinka dancing, although you looked good doing it!!