To say that Makerere University is facing challenges is nolonger surprising.
However, the problems at Uganda’s oldest and premier institution of higher learning seem to be increasing on a daily basis.
Latest information indicates that two Influential officials are embroiled in a tough disagreement over how the institution is being run.
The feud is between Vice Chancellor Prof. Ddumba Ssentamu and the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance, Prof. Banarbas Nawangwe.
The row between the two dons is said to have started when Prof Nawangwe advised his boss, Prof Ddumba on how to manage the university in order to reduce and or stop strikes by workers and students.
Makerere has over the years experienced strikes almost every semester, something that dented the rather good reputation of the institution.
The strikes at Makerere last year forced President Museveni to close the institution and a probe how the university is being managed was commissioned. The probe is still ongoing.
Well, the issues at Makerere see to be like a stubborn unwanted plant that keeps sprouting regardless of the farmer’s efforts to eliminate it.
Row deepens
According to a source familiar with the bad blood between Ddumba and Nawangwe, the two have been exchanging insults via email.
It has reached a stage where the two professors can’t even greet each other when they meet in their office corridor in the famous main administration building.
Theugandan understands that Prof Nawangwe is eying Prof Ddumba’s VC job.
This has further enraged Prof Ddumba who has accused Prof Nawangwe of pulling him down.
In fact the two strong individuals have created two opposing factions.
Prof Ddumba has even told his close friends, that he may resign and “Nawangwe to take full charge”.
Security officer joins fight
The university’s Security Officer, Jackson Mucunguzi has been sucked into the matter and is alleged to be on Prof Nawangwe’s side.
A source says that Mr Mucunguzi, a police officer has also been exchanging bitter words with Prof. Ddumba and that they don’t see eye to eye.
Theugandan will follow this story closely and we will keep you in the loop.
