Uganda on the spot over claims of turning Dubai Embassy into a casino

The matter was brought to attention in Uganda's Parliament by Shadow Foreign Minister, Muwada Nkunyingi during a parliamentary session held on August 1, 2024.

This is after social media reports claimed that Uganda was profiting from a casino business at the consulate. 

Nkunyingi called for investigations into the matter, adding that it could ruin the bilateral ties with the Arab nation if the situation is not looked into. 

“Parliament pushed for this consulate to extend support and services to Ugandans who are thousands living in Dubai. Surprisingly turning the consulate into a casino and a gambling house contravenes the laws of UAE, our laws and international laws governing diplomatic premises,” Nkunyingi said as quoted by Ugandan Parliament's official website.

Uganda's parliament consists of a shadow cabinet that is appointed by the leader of opposition to hold the government to account. 

The matter also caught the attention of Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja who directed the country's Foreign Affairs Minister Jeje Odongo to defend his docket.

Uganda's Deputy Speaker in Parliament Thomas Tayebwa summoned Odongo to explain the allegations, whereby he promised to present a report once investigations are complete. 

He, however, declined to comment on the matter further, saying it would jeopardise the investigations. 

"I assure you that we are taking this matter seriously and will get to the bottom of it. A report will be presented to Parliament once the investigation is complete," he said as quoted by Uganda's Nilepost publication. 

Some MPs led by Nkunyingi have since called for Odongo to resign to ensure he does not interfere in the ongoing investigations. 

"Gen Odongo's continued involvement in the probe will jeopardise its findings, He is a key figure in the diplomatic corps and his stay in office may compromise the investigation. We demand that he resigns to ensure a fair and independent investigation," said Nkunyingi as quoted by Nilepost. 

A consulate is a building that supports the embassy in its host country. In October 2021, Uganda's government established a liaison office which was later upgraded to a Consulate in 2022.

The government emphasised the need to promote economic and commercial linkages with Dubai and also provide services to nationals living and working in the Arab country.