Kyambogo University is under fire after Vice Chancellor Prof. Eli Katunguka suspended more than 20 students who participated in protests against newly introduced tuition surcharges.
The protests, which erupted earlier this week, were driven by student anger over what they described as unclear and unfair additional fees. Demonstrators stormed the main campus, chanting and holding placards as they demanded the immediate removal of the charges.
Following the demonstrations, the university administration issued suspension notices to students it labeled as the main instigators and participants. Prof. Katunguka defended the disciplinary action, citing disruption of academic operations and violations of student conduct regulations.
“We cannot permit chaos in the name of freedom of expression,” the Vice Chancellor stated during a press briefing. “There are proper mechanisms for voicing concerns, and what we witnessed was a blatant disregard for those.”
Student leaders, however, argue they had exhausted all formal channels before organizing the protest. “This is suppression,” said one of the suspended students, who requested anonymity. “The administration isn’t listening — it’s shutting us down.”
The suspensions have sparked divided public opinion, with some urging dialogue and reconciliation, while others support the university’s strict response.
With tensions still high on campus, the reinstatement of the suspended students remains uncertain. Meanwhile, student groups are mobilizing legal support and calling for unity to push back against what they view as unjust treatment.
