WHAT KIND of AN ANCESTOR WILL YOU BE?: Tela: The Future Acoli Leadership

What Kind of an Ancestor Will You Be? Tela: The Future of Acoli Leadership reconstructs the indigenous Acoli concept of tela as a philosophy of ethical leadership grounded in communal responsibility, moral accountability, and stewardship across generations. Challenging conventional leadership theories centred on power and authority, the book argues that leadership is fundamentally a moral obligation exercised in service to the community. Drawing on oral traditions, historical records, indigenous philosophy, and leadership scholarship, it traces the evolution of Acoli leadership from its pre-colonial ethical foundations through colonialism, conflict, and modern governance. By distinguishing twero (power) from tela (ethical leadership), the book shows that genuine leadership is measured by service, justice, consultation, and the legacy left to future generations. It offers an indigenous African framework that enriches global discussions on ethical leadership, governance, and institutional renewal.