A seasoned Northern Uganda-based journalist has initiated legal proceedings against a prominent figure in the Lango Cultural Institution, accusing him and his spouse of defamation and demanding UGX 150 million in damages.
Akwam Emmy Milton, the Managing Editor of the reputable online media outlet tndNews, has formally throughout his legal team M/S Okanyum Namusana & Company Advocates filed a Demand Notice Cum Notice of Intention to Sue against Eng. Odongo Joseph Bongonyingo and his wife, Atim Janet Bononyingo.
The couple is accused of making defamatory statements online that allegedly damaged Akwam’s professional reputation and personal integrity.
According to legal documents served through Akwam’s legal representatives, the dispute stems from a news story published on April 12, 2025, by tndNews.
The article reportedly covered matters related to the estate of the late Pulkeria and “C” Bongonyingo, highlighting alleged mismanagement by Eng. Odongo, who is described in the report as a central figure in the ongoing family disputes surrounding the estate.
Akwam contends that the information in the article was provided voluntarily by close family members of Eng. Odongo and Atim, who are said to be biological siblings.
The journalist insists that his report was professionally executed in line with his constitutional right to practice journalism and serve the public interest.
However, following the publication, the couple allegedly took to several WhatsApp groups with large Lango community memberships, such as Lango Development Agenda, Lango Ateni, Dwon Lango, Lango Political Agenda, and Lango Global Network, to question Akwam’s integrity.
In the forums, Eng. Odongo is said to have claimed that Akwam had been bribed by a faction of the family opposed to his role in managing the estate.
“You were paid UGX 450,000 in installments of 300,000 and 150,000 to tarnish someone’s image,” Eng. Odongo allegedly posted.
His wife, Atim Jonot, is also reported to have joined the attack, stating: “Akwam was bought 450,000 to ashamed my him and we have Avidance [evidence].”
Akwam’s lawyers argue that these statements, widely circulated in public forums, subjected their client to “hatred, contempt, ridicule, fear, and dislike,” damaging his reputation among “right-thinking members of society.”
The demand notice describes Akwam as a respected journalist with years of professional integrity and trust from the public.
It further states that the comments made by the two defendants amount to defamation under Ugandan law, both civil and criminal, and violate provisions of the 1995 Constitution and the Penal Code Act.
The journalist, through his legal team, is demanding that the couple immediately: Retract all defamatory statements, Publicly apologize on the same WhatsApp platforms where the accusations were posted, Pay UGX 150 million in general damages for emotional and psychological distress, and settle UGX 5 million in legal fees incurred during the complaint process.
The notice gives the couple seven days from the date of receipt to comply with the demands. Should they fail to respond or take corrective action, Akwam has vowed to file a formal suit in court, seeking justice and compensation for what he describes as “irreparable damage” to his reputation.
Speaking briefly to media in Lira City regarding the matter, Akwam stated, “Journalism is not a crime. I am deeply saddened that, instead of addressing the issues raised in the story, certain individuals have resorted to defamation. I will not be intimidated for doing my job.”
Efforts to reach Eng. Odongo and Atim for comment on the allegations were unsuccessful by press time.
However, legal observers familiar with the case suggest that if the matter proceeds to court, it could set a precedent for how public officials and cultural leaders engage with the media and respond to criticism.
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