By Aggrey Baba
Three years ago, Uganda lost a great leader, a dedicated public servant, and a man who believed in justice and fairness, Jacob L’Okori Oulanyah. Death may have taken him away, but his legacy remains like a tree whose shade continues to shelter those he served.
On March 20, 2025, Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among took to X (formerly Twitter) to honor his memory, writing:
“Today marks three years since the cold hand of death took from us our leader, brother, and colleague, Jacob L’Okori Oulanyah. We miss you every day and pray that your brilliant soul continues to rest in eternal peace, my brother. We are grateful for your service to our country, the Parliament, and the people of Omoro.”
Oulanyah’s story is one of resilience, hard work, and devotion to his people. Born on March 23, 1965, in Lalogi, Gulu District, he grew up knowing that “the sun does not forget a village just because it is small.”
He pursued education with passion, studying at St. Joseph’s College Layibi, Dr. Obote College Boroboro, and Kololo Senior Secondary School before enrolling at Makerere University. There, he earned degrees in Agricultural Economics and Law, later joining the Law Development Centre to refine his legal skills.
His political career took root in 2001 when he was elected Member of Parliament for Omoro County. He quickly proved that “a leader is like a shepherd, because he does not walk ahead for glory but to guide the flock to greener pastures.”
Oulanyah served as Deputy Speaker, under Rt.Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaaga, from 2011 to 2021 before rising to Speaker of the 11th Parliament in 2021, deputized by the incumbent, Anita Among. His short tenure was defined by a strong vision of making Parliament more people-centered, restoring public confidence, and ensuring fairness in legislative processes.
Sadly, on March 20, 2022, he passed away in Seattle, Washington, at the age of 56. His death was a heavy blow, but as the elders say, “a great tree may fall, but its roots remain deep in the soil.”
Speaker Among has since made it her mission to honor his dreams. In August 2024, she led a delegation to lay a wreath on his grave and participated in a memorial mass in Gulu. She also championed regional parliamentary sittings, an initiative close to Oulanyah’s heart, to bring government closer to the people.
As Uganda remembers Oulanyah, his wisdom, humility, and leadership continue to inspire. “A good name is better than riches,” and his name remains etched in the hearts of many.
Though gone, his influence endures, reminding all that service to others is the greatest legacy one can leave behind. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
