Brig.Gen Oluka was a Gift from Ateker People to Uganda – Soroti Catholic Diocese

By Spurb Ernest

While presiding over prayers at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Madera, Soroti City, Vicar General Rev. Fr. Robert Echogu remarked that the late Brig. Gen. Charles Oluka was a gift from the Ateker people to the nation.

Brig. Gen. Charles Oluka, the late former Director General of the Internal Security Organisation-ISO was a gift from the Ateker people to the nation, the Vicar General Rev. Fr. Robert Echogu of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Madera, Soroti City has said. He was presiding over the requiem mass of the late Brig. Oluka at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Madera in Soroti.

Fr. Echogu acknowledged Oluka’s service to his community, the church, and the country, stating that he left behind a legacy that other Christians should strive to emulate. He noted that individuals of Oluka’s caliber, who genuinely serve God, are rare in today’s society. He shared a personal anecdote, noting Oluka’s deep love for the church. He recounted how, during his wedding in the church, Oluka consulted with his first wife to seek her blessing, demonstrating his commitment and love for both his wives—a fact well-known within the church community. 

Rev. Fr. Echogu prayed for the unity of Oluka’s family, urging that they remain steadfast and not be swayed by external influences. He expressed a desire to see another leader of Oluka’s stature emerge from that family. He further emphasized the pressing need for legislators to enact laws that would foster growth and transformation within the Teso region, particularly addressing the challenges posed by youth gangs. He cautioned that without such interventions, the community may struggle to produce leaders like Brig. Gen. Oluka.

The late Brig. Gen. Charles Oluka’s remains were airlifted to Soroti, where the community gathered to pay their final respects. His body was received by a delegation of local leaders, including His Royal Highness Emorimor Papa Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng and The Kumam Won Ateker Papa Raphael Otaya. Following a memorial mass at St. Patrick Catholic Parish, his body will be available for public viewing at Soroti Flying School, before being laid to rest at his ancestral home in Ousia Parish, Apapai Sub County, Kalaki District. 9 February 2025.

The Teso and Kumam chiefdoms united in mourning Oluka’s passing, underscoring the collective grief felt across the communities. The chiefs highlighted the critical role that leaders like Brig. Gen. Oluka plays in maintaining regional stability and peace. In their heartfelt statements, they expressed condolences and affirmed their commitment to supporting one another during this difficult time. The solidarity displayed during this mourning period reflects the profound respect and appreciation the communities hold for Brig. Gen. Oluka and his invaluable contributions to regional security.