The magistrate’s recusal followed objections from Mr Kamoga’s lawyer, Brian Tindyebwa, who told court that the accused had discussed the case with her via WhatsApp.
Entebbe, Uganda: The Chief Magistrate of Entebbe, Ms Stella Maris Amabilis, has recused herself from a high-profile land fraud case involving renowned property broker Muhammad Kamoga, citing threats to her personal integrity and a smear campaign linking her to the accused.
Ms Amabilis announced her withdrawal in open court on Wednesday, July 09, stating that the accused had previously filed a complaint against her before the Judicial Service Commission and was now peddling claims of private communication regarding the case.
“I have no interest in this matter. Other than destroying my name and integrity, the accused has also previously made a complaint against me at the Judicial Service Commission. I, therefore, hereby withdraw from handling the case,” Ms Amabilis said, noting that stepping aside was the honourable course of action to preserve judicial impartiality.
The magistrate’s recusal followed objections from Mr Kamoga’s lawyer, Brian Tindyebwa, who told court that the accused had discussed the case with her via WhatsApp. The court later held a closed-door session in the Chief Magistrate’s chambers with both parties, after which Ms Amabilis officially disqualified herself and handed the case file to another judicial officer.
The case has now been reallocated to Grade One Magistrate Edgar Tusiime Tibayeita, who has scheduled July 16 for further proceedings.
Failed Supreme Court Blockade
Mr Kamoga’s reappearance in Entebbe came less than 24 hours after the Supreme Court dismissed his application to block criminal prosecution, in which he argued that there was a pending civil appeal concerning the same land.
The Supreme Court’s decision cleared the way for his fraud trial to proceed.
Kamoga is accused of fraudulently acquiring over 200 acres of land in Garuga-Bukaaya, Wakiso District, through forged land transfer forms. Prosecutors allege that he unlawfully transferred the land from businessman Peter Bibangamba into his name using falsified documents.
The case has attracted public scrutiny due to the magnitude of the land involved and Kamoga’s reputation in real estate circles.
The embattled broker remains out on bail.
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