Sam Engola Urges Cultural Leaders to Keep Politics Out of Funerals

On February 25, 2025, during the burial of the late Mzee Tonny Oteng in Abolet village, Itek Sub-County in Lira District, Sam Engola, a Presidential Advisor, expressed strong disapproval of political speeches at funerals. Engola emphasized that political leaders should refrain from using such solemn occasions to promote their agendas.

Engola's remarks came as he addressed mourners, stating, "Whoever wants to make his political speech must go to a market or trading centers where many people gather." He urged cultural and religious leaders to avoid giving microphones to politicians during times of mourning, stressing that funerals should focus on honoring the deceased rather than political ambitions.

The late Muzee Tonny Oteng was recognized for his unwavering support of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Engola took the opportunity to praise Oteng's contributions to the party and the government.

As a gesture of support, Engola presented Ugx 1 million, contributed by NRM Secretary General Richard Too-dwong, to honor the late Oteng's legacy.