Makerere University’s search for a new deputy vice chancellor has been halted due to allegations of corruption and mismanagement.
The Inspector General of Government, Beti Kamya, ordered the university to stop the recruitment process until investigations are complete.
“The Inspectorate of Government has launched an investigation into all the allegations of abuse of office, abuse of authority, and maladministration,” Ms Kamya said.
The allegations surround the selection and appointment process for the deputy vice chancellor for finance and administration, a position that has been vacant since 2017.
Complainants claim that the university management has deliberately mismanaged the recruitment process, keeping the position vacant and held in acting capacity.
Makerere University has faced criticism over its handling of the position, with previous searches in 2018 and 2022 failing to yield an appointment.
In May 2024, Prof Anthony Mugisha was recommended for the position, but the university’s vice chancellor, Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, ignored the recommendation and kept Prof Henry Alinaitwe in the acting role.
Prof Mugisha and other staff members have since logged several complaints about the snub, including writing to President Museveni.
“There is growing anger and dissent between the staff and students at the university due to persistent mismanagement and violation of laws and university policies,” the letter said.
Prof Nawangwe has defended his actions, saying the staff had no say in appointments.
“I have seen this letter, it is immaterial,” he said. “Staff associations have no locus in appointments of staff. This matter is being handled in accordance with the law.”
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