By John Kigozi
Kyambogo University has announced the suspension of its 2024/2025 Guild elections following significant concerns raised by university officials.
This decision was made during a management meeting held on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, where reports from the Dean of Students and the Chief Security Officer highlighted several irregularities in the electoral process.
Among the issues noted, the Dean of Students received multiple petitions from candidates challenging aspects of the electoral process, yet these complaints had not been fully addressed.
Internal conflicts within the Electoral Commission also surfaced, resulting in the dismissal of the Secretary and one commissioner, just days before the election.
In addition, the university faced complications from the disqualification of three presidential candidates three days before the elections. This led one of the candidates to lodge a case—Miscellaneous Cause No. 213 of 2024—at the High Court of Uganda, which is still pending a ruling.
Further logistical delays in the submission of candidate information created further setbacks, making it impossible to proceed with the elections as planned.
In light of these challenges, the university management resolved to: suspend the 2024/2025 Guild elections until further notice and establish an advisory committee to investigate the conduct of the electoral process and review the candidates’ petitions.
In addition, the management also resolved to appoint a caretaker government, in line with Article 7, Clause 4 of the Guild Constitution, to ensure smooth operations of Guild activities until the elections can be held.
Meanwhile, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Eli Katunguka-Rwakishaya assured students that the academic calendar remains unchanged and that examinations will proceed as scheduled.
He encouraged students to remain focused on their studies and prepare for exams, while also urging them to stay calm as the administration works to restore order within the university’s governance structure.
