In a recent turn of events at Makerere University Business School (MUBS), the Guild Presidential race for the 2024-2025 academic year has taken an intriguing twist. Juma Wasswa Balunywa Junior, an aspiring candidate for the Guild President position, has come forward to address concerns regarding his eligibility following revelations of a retake during his second year of study.
In a formal communication to the MUBS Guild Electoral Commission (EC), Juma Wasswa Balunywa asserts his compliance with the guild constitution’s stipulation of maintaining normal progress throughout the academic years. He emphasizes that despite the retake, he has successfully cleared the requirement and has progressed without hindrance in his studies.
The letter addressed to the EC chairman references Article 50 of the guild constitution, which outlines the necessity for candidates to be on normal progress, and Article 81, which prohibits candidates from having obtained any retakes. However, Juma Wasswa Balunywa draws attention to a precedent set during the 2008/2009 Guild Race involving a candidate named Tinkasimire and Nasasira, who faced similar circumstances.
During the 2008/2009 race, the legal advisor ruled that “a student to stand for guild presidency should be on normal progress.” Juma Wasswa Balunywa cites this ruling as a basis for his eligibility, highlighting his current academic status and referencing the approval granted to the candidate by the then-Dean of Students, Mrs. Evans Nyakojo.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the EC’s delay in responding to his initial letter dated 15th February 2024, Juma Wasswa Balunywa voices concerns that the lack of clarity may impact the nomination process and lead to uncertainty.
“I successfully cleared the retake and I have made normal progress in my studies,” Juma Wasswa Balunywa states unequivocally in his letter to the EC.
As the Guild Presidential race at MUBS gains intensity, the EC faces a crucial decision regarding Juma Wasswa Balunywa’s eligibility. The campus is abuzz with discussions surrounding this development, with students eagerly awaiting the EC’s response to clarify the situation.
Juma Wasswa Balunywa’s letter has ignited a debate on the interpretation of the guild constitution and the application of precedents in determining candidates’ eligibility. The EC’s decision in this matter will undoubtedly shape the course of the upcoming Guild Presidential race, adding an element of intrigue and anticipation to the unfolding events at MUBS.
