Matemba-Led Activists Petition IGG Over Diplomatic Dual Citizenship

Former Ethics and Integrity Minister Miria Matembe is at the forefront of a group of prominent Ugandan citizens who have formally petitioned the Inspector General of Government (IGG) concerning the citizenship status of serving Foreign Service Officers and diplomats. The petition, lodged on June 11, 2026, expresses concern that some officials may have acquired or retained foreign citizenship while in active diplomatic service.

Signatories to the petition include legal figures like Eron Kiiza, alongside Job Kiija, Kato Tumusiime, and Tumusiime Kakuru. They argue that such actions, if proven, represent a significant violation of constitutional and public service duties, particularly for those representing Uganda internationally.

While the petition itself does not name individuals, recent events suggest a growing scrutiny on this issue. Reports indicate that at least four minister-designates and senior diplomatic appointees have faced delays in their appointments due to unresolved dual citizenship matters. Adonia Ayebare, nominated for Foreign Affairs Minister, and Calvin Echodu, appointed State Minister for Foreign Affairs, are reportedly among those whose swearing-in has been held up by questions surrounding potential U.S. citizenship.

Analysts view this situation as a developing diplomatic challenge for Uganda, highlighting the tension between the increasingly globalized personal lives of officials and the stringent requirements of exclusive national allegiance in sensitive government roles. The petition emphasizes that diplomatic service demands “undivided loyalty, fidelity, integrity, confidentiality, and allegiance” to Uganda, arguing that dual citizenship could lead to conflicts of interest and compromise national security.

The petitioners reference Uganda’s Constitution, the Leadership Code Act, and various Public Service Standing Orders, asserting that oaths of allegiance to foreign states are incompatible with the duties of Ugandan public officers. They urge the IGG to launch a comprehensive investigation into potential breaches of law and ethical obligations within the Foreign Service.

This situation could prompt a wider review of recruitment, disclosure policies, and dual citizenship regulations for public servants in key diplomatic positions, potentially influencing how Uganda navigates its international relations in an interconnected world. The Inspectorate of Government had not publicly responded to the petition at the time of reporting.

Source: Nile Post