Court orders submissions in foreign affairs officer’s diplomatic note case

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The Anti-Corruption Court in Nakasero has directed both the prosecution and the defence to file written submissions in a case involving a service officer at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who is accused of issuing a diplomatic note recommending visas for five individuals.

Innocent Opio, a service officer, faces a charge of abuse of office for allegedly issuing the diplomatic note.

Principal Grade One Magistrate Paul Mujuni directed that all submissions be filed on the court record by March 22, 2026. He adjourned the case to that date to allow both parties time to submit their written arguments.

Magistrate Mujuni explained to both the prosecution and the defence that, after receiving their submissions, the court will analyse the evidence presented by both sides before delivering judgment.

Prosecution’s case

The prosecution, led by Chief State Attorney Nelly Asiku from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, alleges that in July 2022, while serving as a foreign affairs officer at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kampala, Opio abused his office by issuing a diplomatic note recommending that non-government employees be granted visas by the American Embassy.

The prosecution further alleges that by issuing the fraudulent diplomatic note, Opio damaged the image of the country and jeopardised both national and international security.

The state contends that such actions could have far-reaching consequences, not only undermining the credibility of diplomatic channels but also posing serious security risks.

Opio has denied the charges and is currently out on bail.