Kampala, Uganda – A storm is brewing at Kyambogo University after the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Eli Katunguka, dismissed the institution’s Guild President, Akiso Benjamin, in a controversial move that has sparked national outrage and sharp condemnation from opposition figures, including NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi alias Bobi Wine.
The dismissal letter dated July 3, 2025, signed by the university’s Vice Chancellor’s Office, accuses Akiso of breaching peace, mounting roadblocks, and insubordination charges he allegedly committed during a student-led protest against what many have decried as unfair tuition policies disproportionately affecting students from low-income families.
The letter, referencing a disciplinary hearing by the Students’ Affairs and Welfare Committee, claims Akiso violated several sections of the Kyambogo University Students’ Regulations (2003, amended 2016), including regulation 20 (a): Breach of peace, regulation 19 (b): Mounting of roadblocks and regulation 18 and 15 (c): Insubordination to university authority
The decision to dismiss Akiso was reportedly ratified by the 111th University Council meeting held on June 27, following recommendations from the disciplinary committee.
“You breached peace, mounted roadblocks, and were insubordinate… You are dismissed from Kyambogo University with immediate effect,” the letter concludes.
Moments after the letter surfaced online, National Unity Platform (NUP) President Bobi Wine took to X (formerly Twitter), denouncing the university’s actions as politically motivated.
“The Vice Chancellor of Kyambogo University Eli Katunguka has dismissed the NUP Head of Institutions and current Guild President of Kyambogo University, comrade Akiso Benjamin! His crime? Leading a peaceful protest against unfair tuition policies targeting students from poor families,” Bobi Wine wrote.
The opposition leader further claimed the ruling NRM regime under President Museveni has captured all public institutions and is silencing any kind of dissent.
“I salute you, comrade Akiso, for remaining strong amidst this ordeal. History will be kind to you,” he added, using the hashtag #FreeUganda.
The dismissal has sent shockwaves across Kyambogo and beyond, with students and youth leaders calling it an abuse of power and a direct attack on student activism.
Multiple student groups have vowed to hold peaceful sit-ins starting next week, demanding the reinstatement of Akiso Benjamin, who they say was simply exercising his right to free expression and leadership.
Sources within NUP’s legal team said that the party is preparing to challenge the dismissal in court, arguing it violates the constitutional rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of speech, and academic access.
“The dismissal letter contradicts the spirit of fair hearing and targets Akiso not for misconduct, but for his political and social leadership.”
The controversy comes amid growing tensions between Uganda’s ruling government and youth-led political activism, particularly on university campuses. Kyambogo has long been a hotspot for students organizing protests, and Akiso’s removal may set a precedent with chilling implications.
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