GULU, Uganda — Speaker Anita Among paid an emotional tribute to the late Nathan Okori, the father of former Speaker Jacob Oulanyah, describing him as a father figure whose legacy lives on through his children.
Okori, who died March 20, 2026, was honored at a funeral service Monday at Christ Church in Gulu. Among said she attended not only in her official capacity but as a grieving daughter.
“I came because we lost a dad … he had become a father to me through his son, the late Jacob Oulanyah. The late Jacob was my very, very close brother,” Among said.
She reflected on Okori’s long life and his role in raising a distinguished national leader.
“It is out of this old man that we got a person like Jacob Oulanyah … a brilliant lawyer, legislator and leader who shaped the politics of this country,” she said.
Beyond the personal tribute, Among pledged continued assistance to the family, including education support for children and logistical backing.
“We promised as friends of Jacob that we will never let the family walk alone. I want to assure you, we will never let the family move alone,” she said.
She urged mourners to emulate the values of the deceased, challenging them to live lives that positively impact others.
“Ask yourself what you can do that touches people’s lives … emulate something from the late Okori,” she added.
Among recalled a deep personal bond with Oulanyah, saying they shared a close-knit circle of friends and supported each other through critical moments, including his final days.
“We used to love each other so much … even when Jacob passed on, we were together and promised to carry on his mantle, which we have done,” she added.
Among also revealed her continued connection with the family, recounting visits to Okori’s home in Lalogi and acts of kindness exchanged over the years.
The speaker emphasized that in her culture, daughters play a central role in honoring their fathers, explaining her personal commitment to supporting the family.
“As a little daughter to Mzee Okori, we have taken it upon ourselves to fully stand with the family,” she said.
Among contributed 10 million shillings, nine cows and pledged institutional support from Parliament.
She also delivered a condolence message from President Yoweri Museveni, who extended sympathies to the family on behalf of the government and the ruling party and contributed 20 million shillings.
The president commended the late Okori for raising responsible citizens and leaders, noting his influence on his children and grandchildren.
“It is evident that he was a strong influence in their lives … especially in his son, the late Jacob Oulanyah, who served with commitment and patriotism as speaker of Parliament,” the message added.
The funeral service drew leaders including former Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, family members and members of the public, many of whom gathered to celebrate a life described as long, impactful and foundational to a prominent Ugandan family.
