By KT Reporter
Martin Bileni, the late Chief News Editor for Voice of Madi in Madi Okollo district, has been laid to rest at his ancestral home near Odramacaku along the Uganda–DR Congo border amid a somber mood. Hundreds of mourners from across West Nile, Uganda, and neighboring DR Congo, including members of the media fraternity, gathered at Kijoro Odrua Primary School grounds to condole, pray, and witness Bileni’s burial.
Bileni died en route to Rhino Camp Health Center IV after a head-on collision with another motorcycle rider in Ogoko Sub-County on Friday afternoon. Medical reports indicate that he succumbed to excessive bleeding from a head injury and damage to bones on his forehead. Two other victims in the collision sustained multiple fractures and injuries and remain in critical condition.
During the funeral service on Tuesday afternoon, Rt. Rev. Charles Collins Andaku, Bishop of Madi West Nile Diocese, praised Bileni as a result-oriented, God-fearing, dedicated, respectful, and passionate man whose legacy should be emulated.
He also commended the media fraternity for standing with Bileni amid challenges while pursuing his dreams. Bishop Andaku noted that the late Bileni’s tragic death should serve as a life lesson and a reminder of true faith in God. Meanwhile, Nancy Bileni, the wife of the late journalist, described her husband as an overcomer who fought several battles in life with resilience but maintained peace in his life.
Speaking in Lugbara, former Member of Parliament for Ayivu County Bernard Atiku, who chaired the funeral arrangements and burial committee, described Bileni as a hardworking media personality who strived to achieve high standards of education in his career. Bileni worked for over five years as Presenter and later News Editor at Voice of Life FM in Arua City. He was subsequently appointed Communication Secretary for Madi West Nile Diocese but left after two years to pursue further studies in Kampala.
On returning, he completed a five-month internship at Arua One FM (Vision Group) before joining Voice of Madi FM a year ago as Chief News Editor. Reports indicate that a week ago, he applied for and attended interviews for the Communications Officer position at Madi Okollo district local government.
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