Lira, Uganda – May 01,2025– A legal storm is brewing as M/S Okanyum Namusana & Company Advocates has issued a demand notice cum notice of intention to sue** against Eng. Odongo Joseph Bongonyinge,the Minister for External Affairs of Lango Cultural Institution, and his wife, Atim Jenet Bononyinge,over alleged defamatory statements made against Akwam Emmy Milton Managing Editor of tndNews.
The dispute stems from a news story published on April 12, 2025,where TND reported on the alleged mismanagement of the late Pulkeria and ‘C’ Bongonyinge’s estate by Eng. Odongo. According to the legal notice, the information was sourced from close family members of the Bongonyinge family.
However, on April 27, 2025,Eng. Odongo and his wife reportedly took to multiple WhatsApp groups,including Lango Development Agenda, Lango Ateni, Dwon Lango, Lango Political Agenda,and Lango Global Network,accusing Akwam of accepting a UGX 450,000 bribe to tarnish their reputation.
-The posts allegedly portrayed Akwam as corrupt, damaging his professional integrity,The statements incited public ridicule, hatred, and contempt,affecting his reputation. and the law firm demands an immediate retraction, a public apology, UGX 150 million in damages and UGX 5 million in legal fees.
Akwam confirmed receiving threatening calls and alleged a plot to arrest him in Kampala or Lira. He vowed to pursue justice, stating: “If Odongo is found guilty, he must be punished or imprisoned.”
Joseph Ekol Ekol Chairperson of Lango Online News Website,condemned the threats, warning that such actions against journalists will not be tolerated.
Patrick Okidi a journalist with Ankole Times,revealed that Eng. Odongo has five pending police cases including an attempted rape allegation.
Despite repeated attempts to contact him, Eng. Odongo Bongonyinge did not respond to calls or messages.
The legal notice gives the accused a short window to comply,failing which a lawsuit will be filed.This case could set a precedent on press freedom and defamation in Uganda.
