Uganda’s Deputy Chief Justice, Flavian Zeija, has called for a swift investigation into the conduct of Entebbe Chief Magistrate Stella Maris Amabilis, following her controversial decision to step down from a high-profile fraud case.
In a letter dated August 6, 2025, Justice Zeija asked the Principal Judge to take charge of the matter after a complaint was lodged by businessman Kamoga Muhamadi. Kamoga is the key figure in two criminal cases currently before the Entebbe Chief Magistrate’s Court.
The letter, which this publication has seen, refers to Criminal Cases No. 835 and 836 (Kamoga Muhamadi vs Uganda), and forwards the complaint for further handling by the Principal Judge, under whose docket the case falls.
Kamoga’s legal team, led by lawyer Brian Tindyebwa, had raised serious concerns about Magistrate Amabilis’s impartiality. They claimed she had been in private communication with the accused via WhatsApp—allegations that led them to formally object to her continuing to preside over the case.
The claims quickly stirred debate both inside and outside the courtroom. In response, Magistrate Amabilis summoned both parties to her chambers for a private meeting. When court resumed, she calmly announced her withdrawal from the case.
“I have no personal interest in this matter,” she told the court. “But rather than have my name dragged through unnecessary controversy—especially given that the accused had earlier filed a complaint against me with the Judicial Service Commission—I have decided to step aside to protect my integrity.”
Her decision marked a dramatic turn in the case, which involves allegations of fraud against Kamoga, a well-known businessman and property broker in Entebbe.
The case has now been reassigned to Grade One Magistrate Edgar Tusiime, who is expected to take over proceedings.
For now, all eyes are on the Principal Judge’s office as the judiciary begins internal inquiries into the conduct of one of its own.
