Tensions Flare in Lira NRM as Party Officials Clash Over Missing UGX 1 Million Funds

LCC TV NEWS

LIRA, Uganda — A heated dispute erupted within the National Resistance Movement (NRM) leadership in Lira District on Sunday, July 19, 2026, after the party’s District Registrar, Moses Okello, was accused of withholding UGX 1 million allegedly released by the NRM Secretariat for District Executive Committee (DEC) activities. The accusations surfaced during a district party meeting convened to discuss preparations for ongoing village structure elections, parish elections, and other mobilization activities .

Lira District Woman MP and NRM District Chairperson Linda Agnes Auma publicly accused Okello of failing to account for funds reportedly sent by the NRM Secretariat for DEC operations. Auma stated that while all District Executive Committees countrywide received the facilitation, Lira DEC members had neither received the money nor been provided with accountability for its use .

"My concern is not personal. The money should go to the intended beneficiaries," Auma said. She also criticized the District Registrar for poor coordination and failure to work closely with the district party leadership. Auma further noted that her name was being unfairly linked to the alleged disappearance of the funds, emphasizing that the money was under the custody of the District Registrar .

NRM Lira District Vice Chairperson George Abdul informed the meeting that following pressure from party leaders, Okello reportedly handed the money to the NRM district publicity team. The district leadership resolved to meet subsequently to resolve the matter .

Northern Uganda NRM Vice Chairperson Denish Hamson Obua questioned Okello on four specific issues: the exact amount received from the party, the official guidelines for its use, how the funds were utilized, and whether the district leadership had been formally informed. In his defense, Okello denied any wrongdoing, stating he received the UGX 1 million and attempted to contact district leaders including Auma and Abdul, but claimed his phone calls went unanswered .

Closing the meeting, Obua directed Okello to provide a clear explanation regarding the funds and urged him to protect the integrity of the party. "Avoid actions that could damage the image of the NRM," Obua said .

The district leadership resolved to hold further discussions to conclusively address the matter and establish accountability over the disputed funds .