Casino scandal: Jeje Odongo refuses to comment

The Foreign Affairs minister promised to present a report to Parliament once the probe is complete.

Foreign Affairs minister Jeje Odongo has refused to provide a detailed statement on the controversial establishment of a casino at the Ugandan consulate in Dubai, UAE, citing ongoing investigations into the matter.

"The allegations are serious and touch on the integrity of individuals and the diplomatic relationship between Uganda and the United Arab Emirates," Gen Odongo told Parliament on Wednesday.

"I cannot comment further on this matter as it may jeopardise the investigation."

The minister, however, promised to present a report to Parliament once the probe is complete.

"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.

But some MPs led by Shadow foreign minister Muwadda Nkunyingi are demanding that Gen Odongo resign as minister, citing concerns that his involvement in the investigation could compromise its integrity.

"Gen Odongo's continued involvement in the probe will jeopardise its findings," Muwadda said. "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."

The controversy surrounding the casino's establishment has sparked widespread outrage, with many questioning how a gambling facility could be set up in a diplomatic mission without proper oversight.

"It's unacceptable that a casino was established in a diplomatic mission without proper oversight," said another MP.

"We need to get to the bottom of this and ensure that those responsible are held accountable."