Makerere University has suspended Brian Murungi, a Bachelor of Social Work student, for allegedly assaulting a fellow student and destroying property during violent clashes at Mitchell Hall, in what authorities describe as unrest fueled by anti-gay sentiments among residents.
In a letter dated October 24, 2025, and signed by Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Murungi was suspended with immediate effect to allow for investigations into the October 16 incident, in which he and several others allegedly attacked Kitale Shafiq, accusing him of being gay.
“You, together with other students yet to be identified, allegedly assaulted your fellow student and maliciously destroyed both his property and University property,” Prof. Nawangwe wrote.
“This conduct is contrary to the Makerere University Students Regulations, 2015.”
The Vice Chancellor added that the suspension aims to pave the way for investigations and protect the well-being of the university community.
Murungi has been directed to vacate university premises by 5:00 p.m. on Friday and will not be allowed to participate in any academic or social activities until further notice.
The suspension follows rising tension at Mitchell Hall after a petition from some residents, dated October 20, demanded that the university “declare its position on homosexuality.”
The petition — reportedly signed by more than 20 students — accused certain hall residents of engaging in “male-to-male relationships” and urged the administration to take a public stance “against the vice.”
Days later, chaos erupted when students allegedly attacked Shafiq, leading to a police intervention. Witnesses claimed that live bullets were fired during the confrontation, sparking outrage and calls for accountability.
Dean of Students, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, condemned the violence, saying:
“Violence of any kind is unacceptable and has no place at Makerere University. Every member of the university community deserves to live without fear of harassment.”
Makerere University has since launched an inquiry into the assault and the broader circumstances surrounding the unrest. The administration emphasized that the suspension is a temporary measure, not a declaration of guilt.
“This suspension does not imply an adjudication of guilt; it is a temporary measure to facilitate an orderly investigation and protect University interests,” Prof. Nawangwe stated.
The incident has reignited debate over freedom, tolerance, and safety on Ugandan campuses, as universities navigate increasing polarization following the enforcement of the Anti-Homosexuality Act (2023), which imposes severe penalties for same-sex relations.
As investigations continue, Makerere University has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward violence, urging students to uphold mutual respect, regardless of personal beliefs or backgrounds.
