A court in Kampala has postponed to September the divorce case between Ugandan music star Jose Chameleone and his wife Daniella Atim, after both sides failed to reach agreement on key issues.
The case has attracted widespread attention in Uganda and among Chameleone’s fans across the East African region.
According to Ugandan media reports, the dispute centers on the division of property, custody of their five children, and child support payments.
Marriage of 17 years
Chameleone, whose real name is Joseph Mayanja, has been married to Daniella for about 17 years. Their relationship has been a recurring theme in some of his most popular love songs.
In March this year, Daniella – who now lives in the United States – filed for divorce in Kampala, citing emotional neglect, abandonment, and failure to provide for the family. She also claimed she had fled to America to escape abuse.
She further alleges that in the last five years Chameleone left her to raise the children alone.
Chameleone responds
In a statement shared on social media on Wednesday night, Chameleone denied the allegations, saying the decision for Daniella to live in the US with their children was mutual.
“I did not abandon my children. I continue to support them and want to maintain my right to see them,” he said.
The singer added that he was hurt by Daniella’s demand for property, particularly a family house in Seguku, southern Kampala, and accused her of trying to turn their children against him.
“These things we are fighting for are not mine alone – they belong to our children,” he said. “My concern is that I am being forced to hand over property while I am still alive and well.”
What’s at stake?
Court documents indicate Daniella is seeking full custody of their five children, ownership of the Seguku house, and regular financial support from Chameleone.
Chameleone argues that both parents should share the responsibility of raising the children since they are both working.
The court heard arguments from both legal teams and adjourned the case to next month.
