Former Kyambogo University Guild President, Akiso Benjamin, has petitioned the High Court in Kampala challenging his dismissal from the institution, accusing the University Council of violating his right to a fair hearing.
Through his lawyers from Chapter Four Uganda, Akiso filed a judicial review under Miscellaneous Cause No. 239 of 2025, asking court to quash the University’s decision and reinstate him. He argues that the disciplinary process leading to his expulsion was “biased, illegal, and procedurally improper.”
Akiso’s troubles stem from a report by the Students Affairs and Welfare Committee, which recommended his dismissal. However, he insists that the process was tainted, citing the unlawful participation of the Vice Chancellor, who is not a committee member, but allegedly attended and actively influenced the proceedings.
“The Vice Chancellor illegally exercised powers of the University Secretary when he personally communicated the Council’s decision to me,” Akiso stated in his affidavit, adding that the move exposed actual bias and personal interest in the case.
The former guild leader further claims he was denied basic rights during the hearing — including legal representation, the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses, and access to record the proceedings. He accuses the Dean of Students of doubling as both prosecutor and witness, saying this compromised fairness.
On July 3, 2025, the University Council, during its 111th meeting, upheld the committee’s report and dismissed him. Akiso maintains this was illegal since the matter was not referred through an appeal process, as required.
His lawyers describe the dismissal as “manifestly harsh, excessive, unreasonable, and aimed at victimizing” him. They add that the decision violated his constitutional rights to presumption of innocence, fair hearing, and just administrative treatment.
The petition seeks declarations nullifying both the Council’s and Committee’s decisions, a prohibition stopping Kyambogo from enforcing the expulsion, and a mandamus order compelling the University to reinstate him to his former position as a student.
The case has sparked debate on student leadership and university governance, with many watching closely as the High Court prepares to hear the matter.
Kyambogo University has yet to respond to the suit.
