Parliament Orders Probe into Use of Uganda Embassy in Dubai for Casino

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

Uganda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jeje Odongo, Mr Jeje Odongo, has been directed to look into an allegation that the country’s consulate building in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), was being covertly used as a casino in contravention of the host nation’s laws.

The Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of the Republic of Uganda, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, warned that if the matter was left unchecked, it could affect the country’s image.

At the plenary after members of the parliament deliberated on a motion raised by a lawmaker on the issue, the Deputy Speaker said, “On Tuesday (next week), we shall have the Minister on schedule.”

The Shadow Foreign Affairs Minister, Mr Muwada Nkunyingi (NUP, Kyadondo County East), raised of national importance on Thursday after media reports indicated that Uganda’s consulate building in Dubai had been turned into a gambling house.

Mr Nkunyingi justified that the consulate was established and therefore expected to be managed under the law.

“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,” the lawmaker said.

“As well we want to know what disciplinary, diplomatic and administrative steps that have been undertaken to address this development,” he added.

Mr Nkunyingi raised the question seeking a response from the Prime Minister, Ms Robinah Nabanjja, who guided that the matter should be handled by the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

“The Minister mentioned here is also an MP, now that you have requested a statement, I will make sure he comes here to give a statement over the matter,” said Ms Nabanjja.