A commotion broke out at the Lango Cultural Centre in Lira City when Mr Dickson Ogwang Okul, Uganda’s former deputy ambassador to the United States, pulled out a pistol after being ejected from a meeting.
Security personnel and civilians intervened to disarm him, preventing further escalation. He was arrested and is currently held at Lira Central Police Station.
The meeting, primarily attended by elders from the Lango subregion, was organised to plan the region’s participation in the upcoming Ateker Festival in Soroti City, which is scheduled to begin on November 26, 2024.
Mr Ogwang Okul, currently serving as Uganda’s Chargé d’Affaires in Khartoum, arrived at the gathering uninvited, accompanied by two bodyguards. His presence caused unease among the attendees, prompting organisers to request that he leave the venue.
Eyewitnesses reported that the diplomat became visibly agitated when asked to depart. Moments later, he drew a firearm, causing panic among those present.
Security operatives, assisted by members of the public, swiftly subdued him and secured the weapon.
Details surrounding Mr Ogwang Okul’s reasons for attending the meeting remain unclear, as organisers maintain he was not part of the official delegation.
No injuries were reported during the altercation, but the incident has sparked discussions about security protocols and public officials’ conduct.
