Ethiopian couple Ms. Ayalew Tigsit Melkamu and her husband Woldemichael Sisay Bekure have taken legal action against Japanese investor Abe Kalpana and her associates, accusing them of fraudulently taking over their business in Kampala.
The couple alleges that Kalpana, Debra Marie Hayama, and Fidel Otafiire Mugarura, son of Internal Affairs Minister Kahinda Otafiire, took full control of Ephrata Investment Group Ltd, which operates Hideout Bar and Lounge, and renamed it Blackzone Recreation Centre.
According to court documents, the couple claims that Kalpana and Hayama, who were brought on board as directors after the COVID-19 pandemic, used their positions to manipulate the company’s ownership and operations.
“Our vision was to operate the most sought-after and successful bar and lounge in Kampala,” the couple stated in their affidavit.
They allege that Kalpana and Debra Marie Hayama had ulterior motives.
“Unknown to us, they appear to have had ulterior motives to aggressively and mischievously take over Ephrata Investment,” Ms. Melkamu said.
The couple claims Kalpana took over the equipment and operations of Ephrata, framing Mr. Bekure for fraud without proof.
The couple is seeking an interim injunction to prevent Kalpana, Hayama, and Fidel Otafiire Mugarura from transacting business on any accounts without their consent.
“The continued allegations of fraud against us are defamatory and violate our well-established reputation, goodwill, and integrity,” Ms. Melkamu said.
