By Alfred Opio
The Papa of the Iteso Cultural Union, Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng III, has called on President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to consider appointing Constantine Okwi, the Kibale County Member of Parliament–elect in Pallisa District, to a ministerial position in government.
Emolot made the appeal while speaking about Okwi’s leadership qualities and dedication to mobilising communities. He said Okwi has demonstrated strong commitment to public service even before assuming political office, describing him as a leader capable of delivering if entrusted with greater national responsibility.
Okwi is a Ugandan politician, teacher, and accountant who previously served as Minister of Information for the Iteso Cultural Union. He was appointed to the Ateker cabinet in 2023 under the leadership of the Iteso Paramount Chief, Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng III, replacing Gabriel Opolot.
During his tenure in the cultural institution, Emolot said Okwi distinguished himself through a non-confrontational approach, guidance, and professional expertise.
However, Okwi resigned from the ICU cabinet in January 2025 to pursue full-time politics. Since then, he has been actively mobilising support in Kibale County in Pallisa District, where he now serves as the Member of Parliament–elect.
According to Emolot, his experience working with Okwi convinced him that the politician possesses the discipline and ability to perform effectively if given a role in government.
“I have worked with Okwi and I know him as a committed person. Once given an assignment he rarely makes mistakes. If entrusted with a ministerial position, he will deliver and help move the party forward,” Emolot said.
Okwi previously contested for the Kibale County parliamentary seat in the 2021 general elections as an independent candidate, where he finished third. After leaving the ICU cabinet, he later sought and secured the ticket of the ruling National Resistance Movement party for the constituency, eventually winning the seat.
Responding to the recommendation, Constantine Okwi thanked the ICU leader for recognising his efforts and expressing confidence in his leadership.
Okwi said that if given the opportunity to serve in government, he would work for the benefit of all Ugandans regardless of tribe, religion, or political affiliation.
He also appealed to residents of Kibale County in Pallisa District to continue praying for him so that the recommendation by the ICU leadership can be positively considered by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
Okwi further reiterated his commitment to promoting development initiatives in the constituency, particularly the advancement of commercial agriculture as a strategy to improve household incomes and boost local economic growth.
