Describe the political organization of the Luo in the 19th century.
Answer:
- They had a decentralized political system.
- The family was the smallest political unit with the father ‘Jaduong’ as the head.
- They had a council of elders of the clan called ‘Doho’ and it dealt with
maintaining laws arid order in the clan.
- The large group which composed of all clans called ‘Oganda’ was ruled by the council of elder called ‘BuchPiny’. - BuchPiny was the supreme authority dealt with inter clan matters, declared war or negotiated peace and punished the serious offenders.
- Religious leaders were also consulted before making serious political decision.
- One of the elders called ‘Osumba Mrwayi’ was the leader and advised the council on military matters.
- The Luo had a standing army called Thuondi (bulls) whose duty was to raid their neighbours.