Africa-Press – Uganda. In a significant move aimed at strengthening the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot has announced a sweeping cabinet reshuffle—his second since assuming leadership.
The reorganization is widely seen as a strategic effort to inject fresh energy and enhance coordination in preparation for major cultural development initiatives.
Announcing the changes, newly confirmed Cabinet Minister for Information, Stephen Ojacor, said the reshuffle was driven by the need to fill leadership gaps left by deceased ministers and those who have transitioned into politics.
“We lost some ministers while others resigned to join politics. The reshuffle is timely and meant to boost leadership as we embark on key development programs like the construction of the new cultural palace,” Ojacor said.
At the center of the changes is the reappointment of Andrew Ocole as Prime Minister of the ICU.
Ocole, a respected cultural leader, returns with a strong reputation for administrative effectiveness and unity-building.
His leadership is expected to anchor the Union as it moves forward with plans for infrastructure and institutional reform.
The position of Deputy Prime Minister for the Northern Region has been taken up by Francis Edison Ecodu, replacing the late Jones Oluma, whose passing earlier this year left a critical gap. Ecodu brings experience in grassroots mobilization and a reputation for accountability.
Other new deputy prime ministers appointed in the reshuffle include:
John Okiror – Deputy Prime Minister for Central and Minister of Lands
Fredrick Adungo – Deputy Prime Minister for East Teso–Kenya
Charles Ekudel – Deputy Prime Minister for Southern Region
Emeruka Okwalinga – Deputy Prime Minister for the Diaspora
The appointments reflect Emorimor’s commitment to inclusivity and regional representation while reinforcing competence within the Union’s leadership.
One of the most notable promotions is that of Stephen Ojacor, elevated to full Cabinet Minister for Information.
His rise is attributed to his efforts in modernizing ICU’s communications and improving public transparency.
He replaces Constantine Okwii, who stepped down to contest for the parliamentary seat in Kibaale County, Pallisa District.
Also exiting the cabinet is Abdullah Ochogia, who has been reassigned to serve in the newly formed Iteso Cultural Union Development Foundation (ICUDEF), with a mandate to lead resource mobilization and project implementation.
Joseph Ojatum, formerly Deputy Minister for Tourism, and Davidson Elyau, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, have also stepped down to pursue political careers.
Elyau, who intends to contest for Member of Parliament in Kalaki County, has been replaced by Diana Esele, an active voice for youth and gender affairs within the diaspora.
According to palace insiders, the reshuffle is a deliberate effort to retool the Union ahead of transformative projects, particularly the construction of a permanent royal palace to serve as the cultural and administrative headquarters for the Iteso people.
Observers have lauded Emorimor Emolot’s leadership since his coronation, citing deliberate efforts to reposition the ICU as a progressive and forward-looking institution.
Under his watch, initiatives to preserve language, document heritage, and foster cross-border unity have gained momentum.
The cabinet reshuffle is thus seen not merely as a change in personnel, but as a clear signal of the Union’s readiness to advance a cultural renaissance rooted in unity, accountability, and long-term development.
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