Trouble As TND News Uganda, Boss Threatens to Drag Clan Chief Engineer Joseph Odongo to Court over alleged Defamation

Lira, Uganda :TND News Uganda, a well-known online news outlet in Northern Uganda, has decided to sue engineer Odongo Joseph Bongonyinge and the wife.

During a press conference in Lira city, Emmy Milton Akwam, the executive editor, announced that he is ready to take legal action against the engineer for alleged defamation and threats.

 Akwam is asking for UGX 155 million in damages after the couple accused him of taking a UGX 450,000 bribe to expose their poor management of a family estate. He stated, 'I will quit journalism and leave TND News Uganda if they can prove their claims.'

 The legal notice from M/S Okanyum, Namusana & Co. Advocates warns that the couple will be taken to court unless they take back their harmful WhatsApp messages that call Akwam a 'paid propagandist.' On April 12, 2025, TND News published an investigation saying that Odongo, married to Atim, had 'mismanaged' the estate of their deceased relatives, with sources including Odongo's own siblings. Odongo later expressed his frustration in groups like Lango Development Agenda, saying, 'Can you believe he  was paid UGX 450k in parts to ruin someone's reputation?'

 Atim also claimed, 'Akwam was paid 450k to disgrace my husband, and we have proof.' The lawyers argue that these messages have harmed Akwam's reputation, making him look like a 'corrupt mercenary' and damaging his 20-year career as a 'trustworthy journalist.' 

He warned that 'defamation is a crime in Uganda,' citing the Penal Code and Constitution. 

'Our client will not accept being seen as a bribed puppet. Comply or face the consequences!' 

Joseph Ekol Ekol, a journalist of Vision Group also leader of Lango Digital Media association condemned an attack  on journalistsbeing physicial or emotional.

"Lets cooperate with the media and allow them deliver their task with their guiding principles always." He stated.

He added as journalsits they are seeking full support of the human rights nextwork for journalsits also in this case.

Bongonyinge have not responded, but the notice was also sent to the LCI Chairperson in Lira, hinting at possible community issues.

Our reporter's attempt to get his comment was unsuccessful.