The Kumam Cultural Heritage (KUCH) General Assembly on Wednesday, December 18, 2025, convened in Amolatar District and successfully elected new leaders of the General Assembly in accordance with the institution’s constitution.
The historic sitting took place at Inomo Cell, Inomo Ward in Amolatar Town Council, drawing delegates from across Kumam land. The General Assembly is the highest decision-making organ of the Kumam Cultural Institution, bringing together representatives tasked with shaping policy direction, governance, and unity within the cultural body.
The assembly was presided over by Charles Ekemu, Chairperson of the KUCH Electoral Commission, who guided the electoral process in line with Article 8 (1) of the Kumam Cultural Heritage Constitution. Ekemu emphasized transparency, constitutionalism, and inclusivity throughout the elections.
Composition of the Assembly
Eligible voters included clan chairpersons (Won Ebuku), county women leaders, youth representatives, and representatives of persons with disabilities, reflecting the institution’s commitment to broad representation and participatory leadership.
Speaker Election Results
The race for Speaker of the General Assembly attracted two candidates.
Ted Enangu nominated John Bosco Ekalu, with the nomination seconded by Christine Adongo of Won Ebuku Amen Ikarwok.
Enasu Emmanuel was nominated by Elori Ali and seconded by Moses Okia.
Following a peaceful and transparent voting exercise, John Bosco Ekalu emerged victorious with 286 votes, defeating Enasu Emmanuel, who garnered 44 votes.
In a show of sportsmanship, Enasu Emmanuel conceded defeat and congratulated the winner, urging the newly elected leaders to uphold integrity. He called on them to “work on the table and not under the table,” emphasizing the importance of transparency, accountability, and unity within KUCH.
Deputy Speaker Contest
The election for Deputy Speaker also saw spirited participation. Anango Florence nominated Enyou Raymond from Amolatar, who received 5 votes.
However, Francis Ekou from Dokolo secured a decisive victory with 204 votes, defeating Enasu Emmanuel, who polled 62 votes, and was subsequently declared the duly elected Deputy Speaker of the General Assembly.
Deputy Secretary Election
The contest for Deputy Secretary attracted three candidates:
- Aluko Mary – 171 votes
- David Eluru – 116 votes
- Opio Jessy – 66 votes
With the highest number of votes, Aluko Mary was declared the winner and officially elected Deputy Secretary of the KUCH General Assembly.
Constitutional Process and Swearing-In
The elections were conducted under Article 7 (2).1 of the Kumam Cultural Heritage Constitution, which provides for the election of General Assembly leaders, while the mandate of the Electoral Commission is stipulated under Article 8 (1).
Upon completion of the voting process, the Assembly proceeded with the swearing-in of the newly elected officials, marking the successful conclusion of a key constitutional exercise for the Kumam Cultural Institution.
Looking Ahead
The newly elected leaders are expected to provide strategic guidance to the General Assembly, oversee policy decisions, and strengthen unity, governance, and cultural preservation across Kumam land. Their leadership comes at a time when cultural institutions are increasingly expected to play a central role in social cohesion, development, and identity preservation.
The KUCH General Assembly sits once a year, making this session a critical milestone in setting the tone and direction of the institution’s affairs for the coming year.
