Leadership at the family, lineage, village, or clan level remains the prerogative of the men, and lineage ties extends to women even after marriage. There are many societies and associations ("Ulim" also called "udim") for men and women which are very important in traditional village life. Individuals are measured by both the number and types of memberships in "Ulim" and by the achievements of one or more "Ulims". Governance is done by elderly males who act as the legislative arm called Afe Ichong, directed by the "Abong Ichong" (Village Chief and Clan Chief) who is the head and the chief executive but without the authority beyond what the "Afe Ichong" gives. A chief can be appointed by the "Afe" or can be an inherited office.