By Nathan Eyagu
PALLISA - His Highness Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Inspector General of Police, Mr. John Cossy Odomel, describing him as a dedicated Ugandan who served with diligence, integrity, honesty, and devotion.
Emorimor attended the funeral service at Odomel’s ancestral home in Amusing Village, Boliso 1 Sub-County, Pallisa district.
The Paramount Chief spoke fondly of Odomel, recognizing his significant role in transforming the Uganda Police and fostering trust among the citizens.
"I first met Cossy in 1986 when I was a businessman. He rescued me from multiple arrests, and in 1995, he attended my wedding and played a key advisory role in transforming the cultural direction of the Iteso Cultural Union," Emorimor shared.
He urged the government to provide more opportunities to the Iteso people within the police forces in honor of the late Odomel's contributions.
Addressing the mourners, Emorimor also called on the leaders of the Iteso community to unite ahead of the upcoming political season. He stressed the importance of maintaining the significant positions held by members of the community, such as the Vice President and the Speaker of Parliament, under President Museveni's government, noting that these roles benefit the entire Ateker, not just individuals.
The funeral was attended by Uganda’s Vice President, Jessica Rose Alupo, who represented President Yoweri Museveni.
In his message, President Museveni praised Odomel for his role in setting the standard for professionalism in Uganda’s justice system and police force.
Vice President Alupo was joined by several high-ranking officials, including NRM Vice Chairman Flight Capt. Mike George Mukuka, Fisheries Minister Helen Adoa Abeku, State Minister for Gender Helen Rose Asamo, and Kasilo MP Elijah Okupa, among other dignitaries.
Odomel was appointed IGP by President Museveni on April 24, 1992, and was deputized by the late John Kisembo. He passed away on February 16, 2025, in India while receiving treatment and was laid to rest at his ancestral home in Pallisa district.
