Journalists Accuse Colleagues of Sharing Siroko District NRm Chairman Lumolo’s Sh10m Donation Meant for Association

A journalist in the Mbale region has publicly accused a small group of colleagues of withdrawing and sharing among themselves Sh10 million that was donated by the Sironko District NRM Chairperson for the collective benefit of media practitioners.

Proof of deposit:- 

The journalist, speaking out despite fears of backlash, said the funds were intended for an association account after a formal pledge. “Other people may fear to speak out, but I will not. I don’t care who gets annoyed, beats me, rejects me, or hates me,” the journalist stated.

According to the account, Sironko District NRM Chairperson Lumolo Suliman invited a group of journalists to his home, where they shared a cup of tea. During the meeting, Lumolo pledged Sh10 million to help uplift their income. The journalists unanimously agreed the money should be deposited into an association account. A few months later, the chairperson released the funds and confirmed the transfer.

The journalist expressed shock and irritation upon learning that the money had been withdrawn by between five and seven individuals and shared among themselves “like groundnuts.”

One of those who received funds admitted the money appeared on a mobile money account without prior knowledge of its origin. The person only later learned the source after being contacted. Another recipient claimed the cash was a separate “bonanza” or appreciation for a few journalists who had worked for Lumolo during a recent election, and was not drawn from the Sh10 million donation.

The journalist then contacted Lumolo directly to ask about any criteria used to select beneficiaries for additional appreciation. Lumolo denied providing any other money to journalists beyond the Sh10 million that was delivered to the association account.

“If it is true, then it is very unfortunate and bad to hear. We journalists are the same people who condemn corruption and sectarianism. How then do we become victims?” the journalist asked.

The same journalist recalled a previous similar incident involving a former Bududa East MP, Sasaga. On that occasion, the MP invited a small group of journalists for tea and gave them a large goat as they left. The animal was later sold without the knowledge of all those present, and the proceeds shared among a few individuals. The journalist said nothing was said at the time.

The speaker questioned the direction of journalism in the Mbale area if such practices continue, noting it is damaging when a few people act as though they are more financially disadvantaged than their colleagues.

The allegations raise questions about transparency and accountability within local media circles regarding collective funds. No names of the individuals alleged to have shared the money have been published. Lumolo’s position remains that only the pledged Sh10 million for the association was provided.