The embattled Vice-Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, has made a dramatic U-turn by lifting the interdiction of Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi, a senior lecturer in the Department of Tourism. This decision comes just two days after he was suspended over allegations of irregular recruitment within the university.
In a letter dated February 12, 2025, Prof. Nawangwe officially revoked the interdiction, reinstating Dr. Muhwezi to his teaching position at the School of Forestry, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences under the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
What Triggered the Suspension?
Dr. Muhwezi’s troubles stemmed from a report on Makerere University’s Recruitment Practices and Targets (2005 – 2010), which scrutinized his hiring as an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Geography under the Faculty of Arts. The findings were forwarded to the Investigation Committee, raising serious concerns about his employment process.
Despite the ongoing probe, the university has backtracked on its decision, allowing the professor to resume his duties while still under investigation.
Why the Sudden Change?
Sources within Makerere suggest that the VC’s move to suspend Dr. Muhwezi sparked backlash from university stakeholders, some of whom questioned the timing and fairness of the decision. There is speculation that internal pressures from faculty members and concerns over due process violations may have forced the administration to reconsider.
Prof. Nawangwe Under Pressure
This incident is the latest in a series of controversies surrounding Prof. Nawangwe’s leadership, with critics accusing him of arbitrary suspensions and a heavy-handed approach to university governance. Many are now asking: Is the VC losing his grip on power?
As the investigation continues, all eyes remain on Makerere University’s leadership and whether more shake-ups are on the way.
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