By Sekaggya Seka Moses
Kampala, Uganda – Makerere University has warned student leaders, including Guild Representative Councilor Joseph Nsamba, to cease opposing the university’s fees policy or face dismissal.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe issued the warning in a letter dated September 10, 2024, citing Nsamba’s alleged involvement in planning demonstrations and inciting unlawful action.
Nsamba and other student leaders received letters stating that their actions contravene university rules and regulations.
Nawangwe emphasized that opposition to the fees policy could harm Nsamba’s leadership, studies, and future profession.
The Dean of Students followed up with a letter suspending student gatherings, citing concerns of incitement to violence.
However, Guild President Vincent Lubega Nsamba accused the Dean of double standards.
“The suspension contradicts your advice to address grievances through established channels, including the Students’ Guild,” Nsamba wrote.
“This decision curtails our mandate and offends Uganda’s Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression, assembly, and association.”
Nsamba called for the withdrawal of warning letters, allowing students to associate freely. He emphasized that students will continue gathering to deliberate on concerns despite university threats.
The warning to Makerere University student leaders coincides with similar unrest at Kyambogo University, where students are objecting to a 50% tuition fee increase, fueling broader debates on university fees and student welfare in Uganda.
