Lira, Uganda | The newly enthroned Awitong of Okadameri Clan, Maj. Rtd Fred Gawera has asserted his legitimacy, dismissing rival claims and warning against parallel leadership structures within the clan.
Gawera said his ascension followed a lawful and transparent process initiated by former Awitong Jimmy Anthony Oyuku, who delegated authority to him before relocating to Canada in 2023. He explained that he served in a caretaker role for close to a year before a formal electoral process was conducted.
According to Gawera, the clan’s electoral commission announced the position on January 5, 2026, through radio platforms, inviting interested candidates to apply. The nomination window closed on January 18, with him emerging as the sole candidate.
He stated that he was declared unopposed and that no complaints were raised within the stipulated period up to March 23, after which he took oath before a Commissioner for Oaths, maintaining that he is the only legitimate Awitong of the Okadameri Clan.
He warned that any group attempting to conduct a separate enthronement under the name of Okadameri Clan would face legal consequences.
Gawera was officially enthroned on March 29, 2026, in Aduku, Kwania District, following what clan officials described as a constitutionally compliant process.
Okadameri Clan 1st Deputy Prime Minister Henry Opio Ogenyi called for unity, urging members to reject divisive elements. He cautioned that internal conflicts could have far-reaching social implications, including the risk of intermarriages within the same clan that could accelerate the rise of sickle cell disease cases.
Ogenyi said leadership is not seized by force and urged members to remain disciplined and protect the integrity of the clan.
He also questioned the credibility of rival factions, noting that the instruments of power were officially handed over to Gawera by the former Awitong.
The Clan’s General Secretary Ebong Solomon Cankare said the election strictly followed the clan constitution, adding that adequate time was provided for all interested parties to participate.
He accused dissenting individuals of breaking away after failing to meet requirements and attempting to mislead the public.
Ebong said some individuals are forging documents and presenting themselves as leaders, urging clan members not to be deceived.
He added that authorities would take action against those operating outside established structures.
Clan Speaker Ocen Solomon reaffirmed that Gawera had initially been entrusted with leadership responsibilities by the former Awitong before being formally elected.
Ocen said the election process was open and intended to unite all factions, but some chose not to participate, adding that the clan recognises only one Awitong and calling on dissenting groups to return and work with the recognised leadership.
Former Awitong Jimmy Anthony Oyuku authorised fresh elections in December 2025 through a recorded whatsapp message circulated on local radio and social media, citing his prolonged stay abroad.
Clan leaders maintain that all instruments of authority remain under Gawera’s custody, reinforcing his position as the recognised cultural head of the Okadameri Clan.