Professor Badru Kateregga, the founder and Vice Chancellor of Kampala University, is at the centre of public attention following a series of allegations he made against his wife, Mrs. Jolly Shubaiha Kateregga. In multiple media appearances, Prof. Kateregga accused his wife of assaulting him and forcefully evicting him from their marital home in September 2024. He also claimed she was attempting to wrest control of his businesses, including Kampala University.
However, a detailed investigation and access to medical and legal records present a different picture. Medical reports from International Hospital Kampala (IHK) indicate that the injuries Prof. Kateregga referenced particularly the scars on his head were a result of neurosurgical procedures performed in September 2024. The procedures were undertaken to address blood clots and other longstanding medical conditions, according to medical staff familiar with the case.
Sources close to the family revealed that Mrs. Kateregga had been instrumental in her husband’s care over the years, arranging treatment both locally and abroad. Around the time Prof. Kateregga claimed he was assaulted and detained at home, he was seen in public, attending various events alongside his wife. Video footage reportedly shows him leaving his home unaided, conversing on his phone, and showing no signs of physical injury.
It is further understood that Prof. Kateregga had been experiencing persistent headaches in the days prior to his hospitalization, and his wife had tried to persuade him to seek medical attention—efforts he initially declined. He was later admitted to hospital by his older children, leading to the emergency surgery. Following his discharge, Prof. Kateregga opted not to return home, instead moving into a rented residence where he reportedly spent time with his children from previous relationships.
Sources indicate that the couple had on-going domestic disagreements, but the allegations of physical abuse came as a shock to Mrs. Kateregga. “I was deeply hurt and surprised to hear those claims. I have never laid a hand on my husband and would never do so. I was raised to respect him and stand by him, especially in times of illness,” she said when contacted.
In December 2024, Prof. Kateregga filed an assault and domestic violence complaint at CID Headquarters in Kibuli. Police investigations, however, found no supporting evidence, and the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) dismissed the case due to lack of merit.
As the fallout continued, Mrs. Kateregga filed an application in the Family Court at Makindye seeking maintenance for their three minor children, citing prolonged absence and neglect. During the proceedings, Prof. Kateregga requested a court order for DNA testing, which Mrs. Kateregga did not oppose. The DNA tests were scheduled to be conducted on April 8, 2025, at the Government Analytical Laboratory. The court also directed Prof. Kateregga to provide financial support for the children in the interim.
On the issue of Kampala University’s ownership, documents reveal that Mrs. Kateregga is a legally recognized shareholder and director. A forensic handwriting report has confirmed that attempts to remove her from the company’s records were executed using forged signatures and backdated documents, raising concerns of fraud and corporate malpractice. The alterations had reportedly replaced her position with some of Prof. Kateregga’s older children.
In a recent incident that raised further eyebrows, a photo surfaced showing Prof. Kateregga posing with several armed counter-terrorism officers, which some interpreted as an effort to project intimidation amidst the escalating domestic and corporate disputes.
Observers and stakeholders have expressed concern that the on-going saga could tarnish the image of Kampala University, an institution that has already been navigating various internal challenges.
Despite the public nature of the disputes, some voices have called for restraint and the pursuit of justice through appropriate legal and administrative channels. As the situation develops, both legal and institutional implications remain to be seen.
