Tolit Ivan
The Acholi Religious Leaders Peace Initiative (ARLPI) an inter-denominational body has called on the Government to accredit clerics from the sub-region to take part in monitoring the upcoming 2026 general elections.
The appeal was made by Archbishop Emeritus of Gulu Archdiocese John Baptist Odama on Thursday during a workshop for religious leaders from the Acholi Sub-region held in Gulu City.
The dialogue, convened by Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), focused on the role of religious leaders in driving socio-economic transformation.
Archbishop Odama said while they appreciate the commitment of the government in working with religious institutions in driving meaningful change in education, it’s imperative that they are also accredited to conduct civic education, monitor and observe the upcoming election.
According to Archbishop Odama, accrediting a team of religious leaders under ARLPI will enable them enhance voter’s awareness, educate voters on their rights, responsibilities and electoral processes and promote electoral integrity.
Dr Kenneth Omona, the Minister of State for Northern Uganda Rehabilitation who graced the meeting welcomed the call by ARLPI seeking accreditation for monitoring the 2026 general elections. Dr Omona said it’s a civic duty of all citizens especially those in organized structures like ARLPI to guide the population in the electoral processes and above all in monitoring the coming election.