Agora Discourse, a digital platform focused on human rights, accountability, and social justice, has turned its attention to Makerere University, highlighting the controversy, censorship, and staff suspensions that have characterized Professor Barnabas Nawangwe’s tenure as vice-chancellor.
The platform, led by civil rights lawyers and activists known for scrutinizing public institutions, has launched a campaign to expose the tensions brewing at Uganda’s premier university.
This comes amid a fresh wave of disciplinary actions, including the interdiction of Dr. Jude Ssempebwa, a senior lecturer at the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development.
In a letter dated January 30, 2025, Prof. Nawangwe informed Dr. Ssempebwa of his suspension over alleged absenteeism, citing various institutional regulations.
Ssempebwa, now barred from campus, will receive half pay while a committee investigates the case. The interdiction follows a pattern of warning letters issued to staff, with concerns growing over what some perceive as an increasingly authoritarian approach to university governance.
At the same time, Makerere’s staff associations have petitioned the University Council to investigate alleged corruption, particularly within the Appointments Board.
The petition, signed by the Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA), the National Union of Education Institutions (NUEI-MAK Chapter), and the Makerere University Administrative Staff Association (MASA), raises concerns about irregular promotions and alleged bribery.
A leaked audio recording has fueled the controversy, with a senior university official allegedly soliciting Shs5 million from staff members seeking promotions.
The recording suggests that bribery was presented as a necessary step for career advancement, with a particular focus on influencing the Chief Human Resource Officer’s decisions.
The scandal comes amid a broader restructuring effort at Makerere, including a controversial staff harmonization process. Disputes have emerged, especially in the university’s library department, where concerns about academic qualifications and job security have created divisions.
A leaked conversation suggests that staff could be forced to reapply for their positions through an open competition if the process remains contentious.
Meanwhile, Prof. Nawangwe has moved to shut down dissent. He recently directed the cancellation of a meeting by the Makerere University Joint Staff Association, calling it illegal and instructing security to prevent it from taking place on university premises.
The staff associations are now demanding full disclosure of Prof. Nawangwe’s academic qualifications, which they claim were insufficient for his 2013 promotion to professor. They argue that his reappointment in 2022 only deepened concerns about transparency.
The vice-chancellor has responded by issuing warning letters to staff leaders, accusing them of unauthorized correspondence and disruption.
One such letter was sent to Bennet Magara, the university’s director of internal audit, warning of disciplinary action if he continues making unapproved public statements.
As the tensions at Makerere escalate, staff members warn that the university’s global reputation is at stake. Some faculty have reportedly been questioned by international partners about whether their hiring and promotions were influenced by corruption. The outcome of these disputes could have lasting consequences for both the institution and its students.