Morobo Commissioner joins mourners of prominent late chief in Busia

By Liam Josh

The Commissioner of Morobo County, Charles Data Bullen, on Sunday joined mourners in the Ugandan border town of Busia following the passing of the Head Chief of Panyume Payam, the late Joseph Jama Nyoko.

The Commissioner was accompanied by the Paramount Chief of Morobo County, Naftali Yakani, alongside other county authorities, to stand in solidarity with the bereaved family and the people of Panyume during the difficult moment.

According to close relatives, Chief Jama passed away at his home in Busia on Saturday. Family sources revealed that the late chief had been battling a prolonged abdominal illness. He had recently been brought back from Arua after undergoing medical attention in several hospitals within South Sudan and neighboring countries. Despite sustained efforts to restore his health, his condition deteriorated in recent days, leading to his demise.

Speaking shortly after receiving the news, Paramount Chief Naftali Yakani described the late head chief as one of his strongest pillars in the traditional leadership structure. He noted that Chief Jama made significant contributions to strengthening local and traditional authorities in the post-CPA era and remained committed to serving his community until his passing.

Addressing the mourners, Charles Data Bullen expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Chief Jama as an instrumental local leader whose absence will be profoundly felt across Panyume and the entire Morobo County.

“The county has lost a dedicated and courageous leader,” the Commissioner said. “Chief Jama stood firmly with his community, especially during fragile times. He played a key role in facilitating my breakthrough to Panyume following my appointment as Commissioner. It will be difficult for Panyume and Morobo at large to find a replacement for such a great personality.”

The late Head Chief Joseph Jama Nyoko was laid to rest at his ancestral home in Yaribe Boma yesterday as the community continues to mourn a leader remembered for his resilience, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to service.