In a significant diplomatic shakeup, Uganda’s Deputy Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Henry Mayega, has been recalled after it was discovered that officials operated an illegal casino business from the Ugandan Consulate in Dubai.
This startling revelation has prompted swift action from the Ugandan government, leading to Mayega and his entire team to be recalled from the UAE.
The scandal unfolded when Ugandan authorities learned that the consulate in Dubai had been transformed into an illegal gambling hub.
The External Security Organization (ESO), acting on direct orders from the President Yoweri Museveni, launched a thorough investigation into the matter.
The investigation confirmed the operation of gambling activities within the embassy, a clear violation of diplomatic norms and the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961.
Mayega was interrogated extensively over the issue, leading the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to recall him for further questioning.
According to sources within the ministry, the President was briefed on the situation and personally ordered the investigation.
The findings corroborated suspicions of illicit gambling at the embassy, forcing the government to take immediate action.
A high-ranking source in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed that Mayega has been recalled, and the Permanent Secretary, Vincent Bagiire, is expected to issue an official statement regarding the matter. Attempts to reach Bagiire for comment were unsuccessful.
This recall comes amid growing concerns about the conduct of Ugandan diplomats abroad, following a similar incident where Uganda’s High Commissioner to Canada, Joy Ruth Acheng, was declared “persona non grata” for alleged misconduct and is set to be deported on August 21, 2024.
As the situation develops, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs faces mounting pressure to address the breaches of diplomatic protocol and restore the integrity of Uganda’s foreign missions.
