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Aaron Siribaleka in the dock
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By Our Reporter
Aaron Siribaleka, a Pentecostal bishop and director of the Youth Vulnerable Children and Orphans Alliance (YVCOA) Africa, has been charged with obtaining money by false pretenses and remanded to Malukhu Prison.
Siribaleka, who leads Seek the Lord Ministries Church in Kampala, appeared before Mbale Chief Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, where Grade One Magistrate Annitah Tusiimire remanded him.
The State alleges that between 2018 and 2019, Siribaleka defrauded over Sh390m from pastors, parents, and prospective businessmen in the Bugisu region. He reportedly promised education grants, scholarships, jobs, and business capital through his organization, YVCOA, but none of the promises materialized.
Victims led by Fred Muniala petitioned the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU) in September 2020, accusing Siribaleka of using his organization to collect money under false pretenses. The victims paid through the Child Development Center (CDC), hoping to benefit from the promised services.
Siribaleka allegedly convinced pastors to register CDCs in their communities to access YVCOA projects. Members were required to pay Sh30,000 for membership, while fees for various educational savings accounts ranged from Sh27,500 to Sh54,000. Parents were also charged for job placement after training and sponsorship enrollment fees for organizations like UKAID and African Aid.
SHACU reported that 17 CDCs were registered in Mbale, and payments were made through accounts Siribaleka provided. He will remain in custody until September 25.
Torch Media Africa
