The family of the late former Speaker of Parliament Jacob L’Okori Oulanyah is once again plunged into profound grief as his father, Mzee Nathan Okori Adiyo, passed away on March 20, 2026—exactly four years to the day since his son’s untimely death.
Mzee Okori, aged 97, breathed his last at St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor in Gulu City, where he had been admitted just two days earlier due to respiratory complications. The timing of his passing has been described by many as an uncanny and heartbreaking coincidence, stirring fresh waves of sorrow across the Acholi sub-region, the Ugandan Parliament fraternity, and the nation at large.
Jacob Oulanyah, who served as Speaker of the 11th Parliament of Uganda from 2021 until his death, passed away on March 20, 2022, at the age of 56 while receiving specialized medical treatment in Seattle, Washington, United States. His demise came just days before what would have been his 57th birthday on March 23.
Mzee Okori was a respected patriarch in the Omoro District community, known for his deep bond with his son. In rare public moments captured in photographs, the late Speaker was often seen tenderly adjusting his father’s attire—a quiet symbol of the respect and affection that defined their relationship amid the demands of national leadership.
The news of Mzee Okori’s death drew immediate tributes from prominent figures. Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao called the coincidence “uncanny,” posting: “On the fourth anniversary of the death of Speaker Jacob Oulanyah we have lost his father Mzee Nathan Okori! I have just got the sad news… This is uncanny!”
Speaker of Parliament Anita Among expressed deep sorrow on behalf of the parliamentary community, stating it was with a heavy heart that she informed colleagues of the loss of Mzee Nathan Okori Adiyo at age 97. Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa described the development as “very sad indeed.”
Mzee Okori’s passing marks another painful chapter for a family that has endured significant loss. While Jacob Oulanyah’s death in 2022 prompted national mourning and questions about his health, his father’s departure on the same calendar date has prompted many Ugandans to reflect on themes of legacy, mortality, and the enduring ties between parents and children—even across generations marked by public service and private hardship.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days. The Acholi community and the wider nation stand in solidarity with the Oulanyah-Okori family during this double anniversary of grief.
May the souls of Rt. Hon. Jacob Oulanyah and Mzee Nathan Okori Adiyo rest in eternal peace.
Leave a Reply