The Chief Magistrate of Entebbe, Her Worship Stella Maris Amabilis, has recused herself from a contentious land fraud case involving embattled land broker Muhamadi Kamoga, citing prior allegations that could compromise her impartiality.
Kamoga—linked to the defunct Kamoga Properties Ltd—is facing a slew of criminal charges, including forgery, unlawful eviction, and malicious property damage. The accusations stem from a disputed 200-acre land transaction in Garuga-Bukaaya, Entebbe, allegedly defrauding businessman Peter Bibangamba.
Tensions flared during a court session this week when the prosecution announced its readiness to proceed. Kamoga’s legal counsel, Brian Tindyebwa, swiftly objected, citing potential bias stemming from what he described as previous communication between the magistrate and the accused via WhatsApp.
In response, Magistrate Amabilis called both legal teams into her chambers for a closed-door meeting. Upon returning, she made a formal statement recusing herself from the case.
“I have no personal interest in this matter,” Amabilis told the courtroom. “However, given the accused’s prior complaint to the Judicial Service Commission and the damaging allegations made against me, I believe it is appropriate to step aside.”
The case has now been reassigned to Entebbe Senior Grade One Magistrate Edgar Tusiime Tibayeita, who has scheduled the next hearing for July 16, 2025.
Kamoga’s legal troubles continue to draw public interest, particularly due to his controversial history in Uganda’s real estate circles. His latest charges include obtaining land registration by false pretenses and uttering forged documents.
