By Martin T Maate
Police in Mbarara have arrested seven Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) students, who led a strike this morning to protest the continued closure of lecture rooms, moments after security had warned of the possible closure of the university if the administration does not solve their grievances.
The students’ strike led by the university’s Guild president Katongole Mike stormed the Resident District Commissioner’s (RDC) Office again, to seek answers on why the lecture rooms are still closed, yet the semester exams are due on May 13th.
Lecture rooms have been locked since 3rd may, following the staff’s sit down strike protesting the misconduct and abuse of office by the university vice-chancellor, Prof Celestine Obua and the University secretary Melchior Byaruhanga, whom they want to step down.
Rwizi police spokesperson, Samson Kasasira explains that students are now meeting leaders for a way forward.
Meanwhile, the students say it is unfortunate that the standoff continues even when exams are approaching.
The seven arrested will however be released to allow negotiations for common ground, according to Police.