The Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese, Rt Rev. Dr. Joseph Eciru Oliach, has voiced frustration with certain politicians whom he accuses of obstructing his initiatives to combat the growing problem of youth gangs particularly the gate-crashers known locally as Okadibong across the Teso sub-region.

Over the past few years, these groups have expanded in both size and influence, prompting Bishop Eciru to issue a directive mandating that all events within the diocese conclude by 6 p.m. This measure aims to deter youths from forcefully joining functions late at night.

Nevertheless, nighttime events have persisted, occasionally with tragic results—most recently, the death of a youth in Katakwi District.

The bishop criticized some politicians for exacerbating the issue by promoting nightlife centered around drinking and dancing. “They provide voters with the local brew, Ajono, or keep them dancing until morning. Why encourage excessive drinking that just leads to regrettable consequences?” he questioned.

“They complain that the government is ineffective while their own actions lead to disorder.” Bishop Eciru called on the community to prioritize daytime activities and return home before dark. “At around 5 p.m., it’s time to leave the trading center and go home. Why do some fear to venture back during daylight?” he said, recounting a story in which a son mistook his father, who returned home late, for an intruder.

He also disclosed that he had once been confronted by members of the Okadibong, who released him only after realizing he was not a political figure. His concerns were supported by Joseph Opule, speaking on behalf of Vice President Jessica Alupo, who also linked nighttime gatherings to increased criminal behavior. He referred to a recent case in which a man killed his brother, attributing the tragedy to intoxicated recklessness.

Opule urged parents to fulfill their responsibilities by fostering love, discipline, and ensuring their children are committed to both school and church. He made these remarks during the Stella Maris celebration at Ariet-Kapujan Parish, which included the confirmation of 332 children and a fundraising event for Regina Caeli Cathedral-Soroti.

The ceremony took place on September 27, 2025, at Adodoi-Kapujan Primary School. Toroma County MP, Joseph Andrew Koluo, also expressed support for the bishop’s stance, emphasizing the strong link between alcohol misuse and domestic violence.

Koluo encouraged the youth to steer clear of destructive behaviors such as opium use, gambling, and heavy drinking, and instead focus on more constructive activities like vegetable farming and poultry keeping. He also echoed the bishop’s call for investment in children's education as a means to foster peace and progress.

Engineer Paul Malinga, a candidate for the Toroma County MP position, said he would not take a definitive position on the bishop’s message, but agreed that proper scheduling of events is essential and parents must not shirk their roles.

Community members and church leaders also lent their voices in support. Rose Ayomo, chairperson of St. Thomas Catholic Church in Adodoi, remarked that excessive alcohol consumption contributes to domestic violence and worsens food insecurity.

Emmanuel Opio, a teacher at Adodoi-Kapujan Primary School, noted that many uninvited attendees often travel over 10 kilometers to reach late-night gatherings—especially traditional weddings—which sometimes result in property destruction due to intoxication.

In support of the event, Vice President Alupo donated Shs1.5 million, a bag of rice, and a bar of soap for each child confirmed. MP Koluo also contributed a bull and provided fuel for the clergy and choir members.

Source: URN