KAMPALA — The Kingdom of Eswatini has withdrawn its honorary consul in Uganda, Quilino Bamwine, following a criminal investigation by the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) into alleged land fraud involving $372,000 (about Shs1.4 billion) in disputed property transactions in Kampala.
The decision, communicated by Eswatini’s envoy to Uganda, Mahlaba A. Mamba, comes amid what officials described as “serious misconduct” linked to two failed land deals in the upscale suburbs of Kololo and Naguru.
CID investigation
Documents from the Kampala Metropolitan Police indicate that Bamwine was summoned on October 21, 2025, under reference KMP GEF 285/2025, to assist in investigations into allegations of obtaining money by false pretences.
The complaint was filed by businessman Joel Kakira, who claims he paid Bamwine substantial sums in two separate land transactions that later collapsed under unclear circumstances.
Police required Bamwine to record a statement and present documentation relating to the deals. Sources familiar with the inquiry say he complied with the summons and appeared before detectives at the Central Police Station.
Investigators are now examining financial records, agreements, and land documentation as part of a broader effort to establish whether criminal liability exists.
Diplomatic action
In a letter dated October 31, 2025, Ambassador Mamba revoked Bamwine’s appointment, citing prior warnings and conduct deemed incompatible with diplomatic standards.
“The Kingdom of Eswatini upholds integrity and will not tolerate actions that compromise its reputation,” the envoy stated.
Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed receipt of both the CID communication and the revocation notice, describing the matter as one of “grave concern.”
Officials indicated that concerns had previously been raised regarding the conduct of the honorary consul.
Limited immunity
Legal experts note that honorary consuls do not enjoy full diplomatic immunity and may be subjected to criminal proceedings under Ugandan law.
Should investigators find sufficient evidence, Bamwine could face prosecution under statutes relating to fraud and corruption.
Concerns
The case has reignited scrutiny over honorary consular appointments, which are often held by private individuals engaged in business activities.
Analysts warn that without stringent vetting and oversight, such roles may be vulnerable to misuse.
Data from the Uganda Land Commission indicates that hundreds of land-related fraud cases are registered annually in Kampala, affecting both local buyers and foreign investors.
Awaiting outcome
CID officials say investigations are ongoing, with forensic audits and verification of land ownership documents still underway.
“We are following all leads and will take appropriate action based on the evidence,” a senior investigator said.
Efforts to obtain a comment from Bamwine were unsuccessful by press time.
