Political strategist Egesa Ronald has reignited scrutiny surrounding Ambassador Adonia Ayebare, questioning past allegations linked to his diplomatic conduct as fresh debate emerges over his reported dual citizenship and nomination to Cabinet as Minister for Foreign Affairs.
In a statement, Egesa claimed Ugandans have “selective memory,” alleging that Ayebare previously opened a bank account without what he termed proper government authorization — a claim that has circulated in past political disputes but has never been formally proven in court or confirmed by state investigators.
“Ugandans forget quickly. Ambassador (sorry American Citizen) Adonia Ayebare opened an account without proper authorization. Did Thomas Tayebwa and his appointments committee bring this question to him? What was his response?” Egesa posed, while also questioning whether the Appointments Committee has been sufficiently rigorous in vetting high-level nominees.
The remarks come at a politically sensitive moment, with Ayebare among senior officials flagged in parliamentary verification reports as holding dual citizenship.
According to internal immigration findings tabled before Parliament, Ayebare is reported to hold both Ugandan and United States citizenship, a status acquired in recent years, placing him at the centre of legal and political scrutiny ahead of ministerial appointments.
Section 19D of Uganda’s Citizenship and Immigration Control Act has previously been cited in parliamentary discussions as restricting individuals with dual citizenship from holding certain sensitive public offices, further intensifying the debate over eligibility for Cabinet roles.
Egesa also criticised the vetting process, calling for greater transparency and suggesting that parliamentary approval hearings should be conducted publicly.
“Do you guys see why we should have vetting done on live TV?” he added, arguing that open scrutiny would improve accountability in leadership appointments.
However, there is no official record confirming that Ayebare was ever sanctioned over the alleged bank account matter, and previous responses attributed to him have consistently denied wrongdoing.
Supporters of the diplomat have in the past dismissed similar claims as politically motivated narratives lacking documentary proof.
The renewed accusations now intersect with broader political tensions surrounding President Yoweri Museveni’s Cabinet reshuffle, where questions of citizenship, loyalty, and eligibility have emerged as key points of contention within parliamentary vetting circles.