By Our Reporter
A growing controversy surrounds Ugandan controversial businessman Rugiirwa Katatumba, who has been found in possession of a diplomatic passport despite not meeting the official eligibility criteria. The situation has sparked public outcry and demands for clarity from the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control of Uganda.
According to the official website of the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control of Uganda, diplomatic passports are reserved for a select group, including the President, members of the First Family, government ministers, judges, and other high-ranking officials. Rugiirwa Katatumba does not fall into any of these categories.
Despite this, Rugiirwa who is also accused of fraudulent tendencies has been flaunting his diplomatic passport on social media, leading to accusations of passport abuse. The misuse of the passport could lead to its revocation, as indicated by sources within the immigration department.
The controversy further deepens with revelations that Rugiirwa and his twin sister, Angella Katatumba, obtained their diplomatic passports under questionable circumstances following the death of their father, Boney Katatumba. Boney Katatumba, who served as the honorary consul of Pakistan, passed away in 2018. After his death, Angella allegedly continued to occupy his office and facilitated the acquisition of the diplomatic passports for herself and her brother.
The High Commission for Pakistan in Nairobi has since denounced the honorary consulate that Angella claims to operate as “fake” and without legal authority. A letter dated March 13, 2018, from the High Commission to diplomatic missions and international organizations confirmed that the honorary consulate ceased to function with Boney Katatumba’s demise.
An immigration source commented on the issue: “Diplomatic passports are meant for official government business and come with specific terms and conditions. Rugiirwa Katatumba’s possession of such a passport is inappropriate and indicative of abuse.”
The public’s demand for an explanation has led to petitions directed at the Immigration Directorate, with many Ugandans seeking answers about how Rugiirwa secured the passport and why it has not been revoked.
Rugiirwa Katatumba, who has previously been mired in financial scandals and controversy, now faces intensified scrutiny. His reputation stands in stark contrast to that of his late father, Boney Katatumba, who was highly respected in Uganda.
The ongoing investigation and public outcry underscore the need for transparency in the issuance and regulation of diplomatic passports to prevent further misuse.
