This incident unfolded when Rwanda made an appeal to Uganda regarding the extradition of a Chinese individual named Chen Chao. Chen Chao was allegedly involved in document duplication and tax evasion in Rwanda.
Recently, Rwanda formally reached out to the International Police, requesting Uganda to apprehend the well-known Chinese businessman, Chen Chao, who had evaded tax payments in Rwanda and sought refuge in Uganda. There were suspicions that the suspect had connections within the clandestine chambers of the Ugandan government and security organizations.
Last month, Rwanda submitted a compelling document to emphasize their plea for the extradition of the suspect. Chen Chao had reportedly evaded paying over 67 billion Ugandan Shillings (UGX) in taxes.
The suspect was also accused of failing to fulfill contractual obligations, such as constructing hospitals in Kigali, Rwanda. It is believed that the same individual, who did not meet his commitments in Rwanda, was part of the team tasked with constructing a significant hospital in Lubowa, Kampala, which never materialized.
Uganda’s Foreign Minister, Henry Okello Oryem, announced that they would meet with the Chinese ambassador in Uganda to discuss how to address Rwanda’s appeal. He emphasized that nobody is above the law, regardless of their nationality.
Over the years, there have been complaints from Ugandans about the Lubowa Hospital project, citing concerns about environmental impact and government expenditure.
Members of Parliament, including Health Minister Hon. Ruth Acheng, attempted to visit the hospital construction site but were met with a strong security presence that prevented them from inspecting the project.
Questions arose when a journalist attempting to cover the ongoing hospital project was arrested by the police, raising concerns about freedom of the press.
It’s widely known in Uganda that some Chinese individuals have a history of evading taxes and exploiting workers, as highlighted by Opposition leader in Parliament, Hon. Mathias Mpuuga Nsamba.