Police recently detained 11 students from Kyambogo University who were allegedly involved in a protest against recent decisions made by university administration.
The protests stem from students’ dissatisfaction with the university’s decision to halt student council elections, opting instead to install a temporary council. This move sparked outrage among the student body, who feel that an interim council lacks the democratic legitimacy of a properly elected body.
Reuben Twinomujuni, Kyambogo University’s spokesperson, confirmed the arrests, stating that while students cited the election suspension as a reason for their protest, the administration had legitimate grounds for their decision.
Twinomujuni explained that the university appointed the Dean of Students to serve temporarily as the student council head, a decision backed by university policies. The move came in response to issues involving the head of the university’s student electoral committee, who allegedly engaged in fraudulent practices. When the time for elections approached, this official reportedly disappeared, causing a halt in election preparations.
According to Twinomujuni, an investigative interim committee has now been established to look into the electoral irregularities and examine the events leading up to the student protests.
In the meantime, Kyambogo University assures students that it remains committed to maintaining a fair and transparent leadership process while ensuring a safe environment for all students.
