Stanbic Bank
Stanbic Bank
17.6 C
Kampala
Stanbic Bank
Stanbic Bank
Home Blog Page 37

Tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia named best Honorary Consul General in Uganda 

By
Our Reporter
-
Tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia receiving another award at the past event.

City businessman Sudhir Ruparelia, the Honorary Consul General of Nepal to Uganda, has been voted the Best Honorary Consul General in Uganda following a three-month national survey recognizing his outstanding contributions to trade, tourism, and investment between the two countries.

Ugandans praised Ruparelia for facilitating trade relations with Nepal and creating employment opportunities for several citizens in the Asian country. 

“Sudhir is an inspiration to us, and we commend him for connecting Uganda to Nepal,” one respondent noted during the survey.

Appointed in February 2020 by Nepal’s President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, Ruparelia formally presented his credentials to Uganda’s then Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sam Kutesa, on March 17, 2020, marking the official opening of Nepal’s first consulate in Uganda at Crane Chambers, Kampala. His role as Honorary Consul General involves promoting strong economic and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Among his notable achievements, Ruparelia has championed community and cultural exchange between Uganda and Nepal. He has annually hosted events such as Nepal’s Constitution Day celebrations, which bring together Ugandans and Nepalis to celebrate shared values and cultural understanding. The most recent celebration in September 2025 featured symbolic activities such as cake-cutting and cultural showcases.

Beyond diplomacy, Ruparelia has demonstrated a firm commitment to youth empowerment and education. He launched a scholarship initiative connecting Ugandan and Nepali youth, aimed at fostering educational cooperation and exchange. Through this program, young people from both nations are gaining new learning and development opportunities.

As one of Uganda’s most prominent entrepreneurs, Ruparelia continues to shape the country’s economic landscape through the Ruparelia Group, a diversified conglomerate with interests in real estate, education, hospitality, insurance, media, and agriculture. The group’s portfolio includes leading institutions such as Kampala Parents School, Victoria University Kampala, Speke Group of Hotels, Sanyu FM 88.2, Crane Management Services, and Premier Roses Limited.

Ruparelia’s leadership and vision have earned him numerous awards and honors over the years. In 2019, he was recognized by Public Opinions as a Certified Uganda Development Champion for his contribution to Uganda Vision 2040 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. He also holds an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree in Business from Uganda Pentecostal University, awarded in recognition of his role in national economic growth.

Sudhir Ruparelia’s recognition as Uganda’s best honorary consul general reflects his exceptional dedication to advancing bilateral relations, fostering trade, and empowering communities. His ongoing efforts continue to strengthen the friendship between Uganda and Nepal, cementing his legacy as a visionary leader and nation builder.

Stories Continues after ad

Kanyanya Magistrate’s Court remands NUP’s Olivia Lutaaya over alleged unlawful drilling

By
Our Reporter
-
Ms Olive Lutaaya

The Kanyanya Magistrate’s Court has remanded National Unity Platform (NUP) supporter Olivia Lutaaya over alleged unlawful drilling at the Party’s Makerere Kavule offices in February this year.

Olivia was arrested on Friday in Mbarara City alongside over 100 NUP supporters after security forces ambushed and intercepted Bobi Wine’s convoy when it was en route to Bwizibwera in Mbarara, where he had been scheduled to address his second campaign rally.

The Kanyanya Magistrates’ court presiding judge added Lutaaya to the same case file as party deputy spokesperson Waiswa Mufumbiro, Edward Ssebuufu (alias Eddie Mutwe), Tasi Calvin (Bobi Giant), and others who are currently on remand.

The NUP spokesperson, Joel Ssenyonyi, has, in a post on his X, condemned Lutaaya’s arrest and remand, yet he noted that National Resistance Movement (NRM) supporters who attacked NUP supporters in western Uganda recently remained at large.

“She has told us that the other comrades arrested with her were dumped at various police stations. Meanwhile, the goons who attacked our supporters continue to be free and are at large!!” Ssnyonyi posted.

Ms Lutaaya was last year released by the General Court Martial following a presidential pardon, after spending three years on remand on treachery charges.

The court remanded Lutaaya until November 18, when the case will come up for mention.

Stories Continues after ad

UCC probes ‘smear campaign’ against Amb. Ogwang and Parliament Director Ranny Ismail

By
Our Reporter
-
Amb.Ogwang and wife Ranny

​In an authoritative move to protect the reputation of highly ranking public figures, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has launched an intensive investigation into the Red Pepper Online Publications over a story targeting Ambassador Dickson Ogwang Okul, Uganda’s Deputy Ambassador and Head of Chancery in Sudan and his wife, Ranny Ismail Ogwang, the Director for International Collaboration at the Parliament of Uganda.

​This development follows persistent, targeted media attacks that Ambassador Ogwang, a respected diplomat known for his dedication to public service, has faced in recent times. This decisive action, sources close to the probe say, by the couple and the UCC, “marks a significant effort to combat what the couple asserts is a calculated smear campaign designed to tarnish their credible business practices and high government standing.”

​In a formal letter to the Managing Director of Nalufenya Innovations Ltd (Trading as Red Pepper Online Publications), dated November 6, 2025, Mr. Nyombi Thembo, the UCC Executive Director, confirmed the seriousness of the complaint. He wrote: “The complainants allege that via the website www.redpepper.co.ug, vide a post published on the 26th October, 2025, you allegedly published a false story entitled, ‘On the rocks! Amb. Ogwang, Parliament, babe Ranny Ismail’s marriage hit stormy waters,’ wherein you made malicious, inflammatory and derogatory statements against the complaints.”

Ambassador Ogwang and his wife, Ranny, both prominent parents and holders of high government office, wasted no time in challenging the defamatory post. Through their legal counsel, Anguria & Co. Advocates, they formally petitioned the UCC, citing repeated cycles of what they termed a targeted smear campaign against the couple—”a clear reference to the Ambassador’s unfortunate history of media blackmail,” a source at UCC told our reporter.

​In a separate, strongly worded notice of intention to sue, which was seen by our reporter, the couple also delivered a firm threat to commence immediate legal action in the courts of law against the editors and journalists of Red Pepper if they did not retract the false story and publicly atone for the damage caused to their personal and professional reputations.

UCC Executive Director, Nyombi Thembo during the engagement with Online Publishers.

​UCC in its mandate to safeguard public trust, exercises vital regulatory powers over online publications and online works of journalism in Uganda, and is tasked with adjudicating complaints when public figures and the general public are unjustly targeted.

​In his letter, Mr. Nyombi confirmed the probe was initiated under sections 5(1) (j) and 45 of the Uganda Communications Act Cap. 103, underscoring the legal weight of the investigation. He stated: “The Commission has commenced investigations into this matter and hereby directs Nalufenya Innovations Ltd (T/a Red Pepper Online Publications) to provide a formal written response to the allegations… within a period of seven days from receipt of this letter to facilitate the ongoing investigations and possible arbitration of this complaint.”

​He added a clear warning regarding non-compliance: “if, for whatever reason, the Commission does not receive your written response by the aforesaid date, the Commission shall proceed with its investigations and take any appropriate regulatory measures against Nalufenya Innovations Ltd in accordance with the Uganda Communications Act Cap. 103 and the Regulations made thereunder.”

​Red Pepper’s compliance with the UCC’s summons is currently pending. By press time, the publication had not filed its formal reply to the complaints raised by Ambassador Ogwang and Director Ranny Ismail.

Stories Continues after ad

Off the hook as DPP withdraws charges against Minister Lugoloobi in Karamoja iron sheets scandal

By
Simon Kabayo
-
State Minister for Finance, Amos Lugoloobi.

The long-running court battle involving State Minister for Finance, Amos Lugoloobi, has come to an end after the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) withdrew all charges against him in the Karamoja iron sheets scandal.

The case was formally discontinued before Lady Justice Jane Okuo Kajuga after State Attorney Gloria Inzikuru presented a nolle prosequi dated November 7, 2025, indicating that the DPP had lost interest in pursuing the matter.

Justice Kajuga confirmed the decision, citing Article 120 of the Constitution, which empowers the DPP to end any criminal proceedings before judgment. 

“Since the DPP has withdrawn the case, there is no longer any matter before this court unless the accused faces other charges,” she ruled.

Lugoloobi had been battling allegations of receiving 700 iron sheets meant for vulnerable communities in Karamoja, which he allegedly used to roof a structure on his farm in Kayunga District. The materials were said to have been obtained between July 2022 and March 2023.

For over a year, the minister stood trial, with several prosecution witnesses, including a church reverend, testifying against him. However, on November 11, 2025, when the case was scheduled for the defence to call more witnesses the DPP suddenly dropped the matter, bringing the proceedings to a close.

Throughout the trial, Minister Lugoloobi maintained his innocence, describing the case as politically selective. He said he received the iron sheets in his capacity as an MP and minister through official channels under the Office of the Prime Minister’s (OPM) affirmative action programs.

“I received the items following government procedures meant to support communities in hardship. My constituency, Ntenjeru North, is part of the Luwero Triangle, an area that also benefits from OPM’s affirmative action, just like Karamoja,” he told the court.

He explained that his political assistant, Allan Damulira, and aide, Hawa Bawaya, coordinated the collection of the materials from the OPM’s Luwero-Rwenzori Programme, believing they were meant for his area. 

“When I later learnt that the iron sheets were intended for Karamoja, I replaced them using my own resources and returned them to the OPM,” he said.

The Karamoja iron sheets scandal erupted in 2023 when it emerged that relief items meant for vulnerable communities had been diverted to senior government officials. Lugoloobi was among three Ministers prosecuted, alongside Karamoja Affairs Minister Mary Goretti Kitutu and State Minister Agnes Nandutu.

While Lugoloobi is now a free man, Nandutu’s trial is scheduled to resume in December 2025, and Kitutu’s case remains unresolved amid claims of torture while in detention.

In June 2023, DPP Jane Frances Abodo disclosed that out of 40 related investigations, only three were taken to court. Seventeen were closed for lack of evidence, while the rest stalled after findings indicated that some officials were unaware the materials were meant for Karamoja.

With the DPP’s withdrawal, Minister Lugoloobi walks free, ending one of Uganda’s most high-profile corruption trials in recent years and reigniting public debate about fairness and accountability in the fight against graft.

Stories Continues after ad

World Bank lifts funding ban as Deputy Speaker Tayebwa celebrates shs9.6t boost for Uganda

By
Simon Kabayo
-
Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa.

Nearly two years after the World Bank Group suspended new funding to Uganda over the enactment of the Anti-Homosexuality Act, the international lender has lifted the ban.

Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa was among the first to welcome the development, congratulating the Ministry of Finance and the government for what he described as a major breakthrough for Uganda’s economy.

“Colleagues, I also wanted this opportunity to congratulate the Minister of Finance and the Executive in general on striking another deal with the World Bank because we have been handling loans, praying so much here for concessional loans,” Tayebwa said.

He added, “Yesterday, I also heard that our currency has been the best-performing currency in the region. It’s really when others are facing volatility, it’s something we needed to appreciate.”

Tayebwa further boasted about Uganda’s economic resilience, noting that the shilling had shown strength against the US dollar.

“As a country, I have been in some countries recently they are struggling with the dollar, but now here the dollar is struggling. The dollar is struggling against the Uganda shilling. I think they need our advice on how to handle this macro-economy,” he added.

In celebration of the lifted suspension, Parliament in October 2025 approved the government’s proposal to borrow $1.341 billion (about Shs4.7 trillion) from the World Bank and receive grants worth $328.3 million (Shs1.15 trillion) to fund several national programs.

The package will support key projects including Phase Four of the Northern Uganda Social Action Fund (NUSAF IV), Phase Two of the Development Response to Displacement Impacts Project (DRDIP II), the Uganda Learning Acceleration Program (ULEARN), the Uganda Cities and Municipalities Infrastructure Development (UCMID) Program, and the Strengthening Public Investment and Asset Management for Growth and Resilience Program (PIMPLUS).

Records before Parliament show that the total World Bank financing amounts to US$2.76 billion (approximately Shs9.6 trillion), broken down as $1.388 billion in loans, $325.8 million in grants, and US$449.1 million (Shs1.58 trillion) in counterpart funding from the Ugandan government.

Timothy Chemonges, Executive Director of the Centre for Policy Analysis (CEPA), described Uganda’s excitement as understandable but cautioned against overlooking deeper governance challenges.

“The World Bank lifting the ban signals the partial restoration of donor confidence after suspension of new funding. However, celebrating the World Bank’s return without addressing the structural issues that led to project delays, cost overruns, and poor absorption rates in the past will be premature,” Chemonges said.

He added that Uganda must focus on accountability and efficiency in the use of borrowed funds.

He further said, “The key issue is not access to money, but the efficiency and accountability in how it is used. While concessional loans and grants provide much-needed fiscal space, they also increase debt exposure, especially since the World Bank already tops Uganda’s list of creditors, followed by China.”

Stories Continues after ad

Deputy Governor Prof. Nuwagaba calls for better financing reforms to secure future of developing nations

By
Francisco Adongo
-
Prof. Augustus Nuwagaba.

Deputy Governor Prof. Augustus Nuwagaba has urged governments and global institutions to act swiftly in mobilising sustainable financing to secure the economic future of developing nations and warned that without meaningful reforms, global development ambitions may remain out of reach.

Prof. Nuwagaba noted that many developing countries are caught in a web of growing debt and shrinking fiscal space, leaving them unable to invest adequately in critical sectors such as health, education, infrastructure and climate resilience.

“Financing for development is not a policy option, it is a necessity,” he said. 

He noted,“If we are to realise the Sustainable Development Goals, we must transform the global financial architecture and mobilise resources that genuinely meet the needs of developing economies.”

The Deputy Governor called for innovative financing mechanisms, including debt for development swaps and blended finance models, to help ease the debt burden and channel resources into development priorities.

He explained that through debt-for-development swaps, governments can convert portions of their sovereign debt into funding for agreed-upon national projects such as schools, hospitals, and climate resilience programmes. Similarly, blended finance can leverage public and philanthropic capital to attract private investment into sustainable ventures.

“These models can transform debt obligations into opportunities for development,” Prof. Nuwagaba said. 

He added, “They redirect resources toward building stronger, more resilient communities.”

His remarks follow the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development, held in Seville, Spain, where world leaders endorsed the Seville Commitment, a framework to bridge the estimated $4 trillion annual financing gap for developing economies.

The commitment calls for reforms to the international financial system, including the introduction of a Debt Pause Clause for temporary relief during crises, expanded lending capacity for multilateral development banks and stronger domestic resource mobilisation.

Prof. Nuwagaba emphasised that such measures are vital for establishing fairer and more inclusive financial systems capable of driving sustainable development across Africa and the global south.

He also underscored the private sector’s pivotal role in advancing sustainability by integrating Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles into investment and business practices.

“When private capital aligns with sustainability goals, it becomes a powerful driver of progress,” he noted, adding that global taxation initiatives such as carbon or financial transaction taxes could also help fund development programmes.

Prof. Nuwagaba further called on international institutions to provide long-term financing and technical assistance to nations working toward climate adaptation and inclusive growth.

“Investing in sustainable growth isn’t just ethical, it is economically smart,” he said. 

He also rallied governments, civil society and global partners to work in unison toward financing systems that directly support the Sustainable Development Goals.

“Together, we can reform global finance and mobilise the resources needed for a sustainable and equitable future,” he said.

He added,“This is both our opportunity and our shared responsibility.”

Stories Continues after ad

Speaker Among, KIU mourn death of Basajjabalaba’s mother, Hajjat Azida Nanteza

By
Simon Kabayo
-
Hajjat Azida Nanteza Basajjabalaba.

Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among and Kampala International University (KIU) have joined the Basajjabalaba family in mourning the death of Hajjat Azida Nanteza Basajjabalaba, the mother of Alhajj Hassan Basajjabalaba, Chairman of the NRM Entrepreneurs League and the Board of Trustees at KIU.

Speaker Among described the passing as a painful loss, not only to the Basajjabalaba family but also to the wider NRM fraternity.

“It is with a heavy heart that I share the sad news of the untimely death of Nanteza Aziidah, the mother of Alhajj Hassan Basajjabalaba, the chairman of the NRM Entrepreneurs League,” she said.

She added,“My sincere condolences go out to Hajj Hassan, his family, relatives, friends, and in-laws during this difficult time. May Allah grant eternal rest to Mama’s soul. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un.”

Among also commended Basajjabalaba for his dedication and recent victory in the NRM Entrepreneurs League elections, noting that his election reflected his unwavering commitment to mobilizing and empowering the business community within the ruling party.

“Hajj Basajjabalaba has been a pillar in mobilizing the business community under the NRM. At such a time of personal loss, we stand with him in prayer and solidarity,” she added.

In a separate statement, Kampala International University (KIU), where Dr. Basajjabalaba serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees, expressed its sorrow and extended condolences to the bereaved family.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Hajjat Azida Basajjabalaba, mother of our esteemed Chairman, Board of Trustees (CBOT), Hajj Dr. Hassan Basajjabalaba,” KIU said in a condolence message.

KIU added,“On behalf of Kampala International University, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Hajj Dr. Hassan Basajjabalaba and the entire Basajjabalaba family.”

The university further prayed for the deceased’s eternal peace and comfort for her family.

“May Allah (SWT) grant Hajjat Azida Basajjabalaba’s soul peace and mercy, and may her legacy live on through her children and loved ones. May Allah comfort the family during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Hajjat Azida Basajjabalaba,” the statement read.

Burial arrangements for the late Hajjat Azida Nanteza Basajjabalaba will be communicated by the family in due course.

Stories Continues after ad

Prisons Service warns staff after Ngora Warder’s TikTok videos, vows tough action on social media misconduct

By
Emmanuel Okello
-
Frank Baine, Uganda Prisons Spokesperson.

The Uganda Prisons Service (UPS) has cautioned its staff against the misuse of mobile phones and social media platforms following the circulation of TikTok videos by one of its officers, which authorities say amounted to gross indiscipline.

In a statement issued on November 7, 2025, UPS confirmed that the videos were made by No. 17974 Warder Ampe Lawrence of Uganda Prison Ngora, who appeared in several self-recorded clips commenting on various subjects without authorization.

According to the statement, the officer’s conduct violated the Code of Conduct and Ethics for the Uganda Public Service, which prohibits officers from making public or media statements without official clearance. “A public officer shall not communicate with the media on issues related to work or official policy without due permission from the authorizing officer,” the release quoted.

Citing the Uganda Prisons Service Standing Orders, the institution emphasized that discipline is the cornerstone of the Service. 

“Discipline in the Prisons Service entails the observance and execution of one’s roles and obligations and demonstration of obedience to superiors and consideration for subordinates in accordance with the Public Service Code of Conduct and Ethics,” the statement read.

Uganda Prisons Service Spokesperson, Frank Baine Mayanja, said the institution is strictly following due process in handling the matter. 

“The Uganda Prisons Service is adhering to the due process of managing the case,” Baine stated, assuring the public that disciplinary measures are being enforced.

He further issued a warning to other officers, saying the Service will not hesitate to act against anyone who abuses digital platforms. 

“A strong warning goes to all those who intend to misuse their phones and or computer to be ready to face disciplinary action,” Baine cautioned.

Baine, who also serves as the Senior Commissioner of Prisons in charge of Cooperation and Corporate Affairs, reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to professionalism, saying officers must uphold the values of integrity, respect, and obedience expected of public servants.

Stories Continues after ad

EC launches 2026 campaigns for MPs and local gov’t, clears over 83,000 candidates

By
Simon Kabayo
-
Mr Paul Bukenya, EC Deputy Spokesperson.

The Electoral Commission has officially opened the 2026 Parliamentary and Local Government campaign season, setting the stage for candidates across Uganda to begin soliciting support ahead of the general elections.

According to the Commission’s Deputy Spokesperson, Paul Bukenya, a total of 2,025 candidates have been nominated to compete for the 353 directly elected Parliamentary seats, while 640 candidates will contest for the 146 District and City Woman Representative positions.

In addition, 521 contenders have been cleared to run for District and City Chairperson roles.

“In total, 83,597 candidates are campaigning for 45,505 elective positions from President to Sub-County Councillor,”

Bukenya said in a statement released on Monday morning.

He added that the Commission expects a peaceful, fair, and well-organised campaign period leading up to the 2026 general elections, which will determine Uganda’s leadership at all administrative levels — from Parliament to district councils and municipal authorities.

Bukenya reminded candidates that campaigns must strictly be conducted between 7 am and 6 pm, urging all participants to respect the set timelines and regulations.

“Do not conduct campaigns on or in public roads, markets, schools or hospitals to avoid disrupting normal business,” he emphasized.

In a detailed message issued by the Electoral Commission on Monday, candidates were further reminded to uphold integrity, discipline, and respect throughout the campaign period.

“Candidates, their agents and supporters must desist from involvement in voter bribery both the giver and the ‘eater’ of bribes are culpable and can be subjected to fines or imprisonment or both on conviction,” the Commission warned.

The EC also cautioned against the use of language that promotes hatred or division based on tribe, ethnicity, region, or religion, urging all participants to maintain unity and harmony during the election season.

“Do not use social media to spread lies, propaganda, misinformation, disinformation, or fake news,” the statement added.

The Commission appealed to candidates and their supporters to be mindful of ongoing national activities, particularly the ongoing UACE examinations, and avoid excessive noise near schools.

It further called for mutual respect among political actors, saying, “A person who supports a candidate or party that you do not support is free to do so and should not be seen or treated as an enemy.”

The EC urged all participants to avoid violence, maintain peace and order, and remember that elections should not destabilize communities or the country.

“Let campaigns and elections come and go and leave the people, communities and the country stable, united, and progressing. Elections are not a do-or-die affair,” the Commission emphasized.

The Commission has also encouraged all contenders to focus on issue-based campaigns, adhere to the Electoral Commission Act and Public Order Management guidelines, and ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Stories Continues after ad

Over 160,000 candidates begin UACE exams at 2844 centers

By
Simon Kabayo
-

Over 166,000 candidates across Uganda have today begun writing their 2025 Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations, which is the final phase of the national assessment calendar for the year.

According to the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB), a total of 166,402 candidates are sitting for the exams across 2,844 examination centers nationwide. This represents a 14.6 percent increase from last year’s 141,996 candidates.

The UACE examinations, which officially began today, November 10, 2025, will run until December 5, 2025, under the theme “Embracing Security and Holistic Assessment of Learners in a Dynamic Environment.”

“The writing of papers for the 2025 UACE Examination starts today with candidates writing Theory of Government and Constitutional Development, History of Africa for the Arts candidates, and Physics Paper 1 for Science candidates,” UNEB stated in a joint press briefing with Police. 

UNEB added, “In the afternoon, candidates will write Literature in English, Swahili, and Physics Paper 2.”

The board confirmed that examination materials were successfully distributed to all storage stations across the country in good time and without any major challenges. About 1,650 scouts and security personnel have been deployed to oversee the conduct of the exams.

Of the total candidates, 42,328 are government-sponsored under the Universal Post O-Level Education and Training program, while 124,074 are privately sponsored. The gender distribution shows 77,772 female candidates and 93,630 males.

UNEB also revealed that 521 candidates with special needs are sitting for the exams this year, with the board providing all necessary support. All the special needs candidates are offered an extra 45 minutes.

The board issued a stern warning to candidates, invigilators, and members of the public against engaging in or aiding examination malpractice.

“Once again, we would like to caution the public against involvement in any form of examination malpractice,” said UNEB Principal Public Relations Officer Jennifer Kalule Musamba. 

Musumba added, “Anyone apprehended will be dealt with under the UNEB Act, CAP 259, which provides for a fine of up to 40 million shillings or imprisonment of up to ten years, or both.”

She added that those deployed to oversee the exams will be held personally liable should malpractice occur under their watch, as stipulated under Section 26 (1) (g) of the UNEB Act. Members of the public have also been encouraged to report any suspected malpractice through UNEB’s toll-free hotlines 0800 111 427 and 0800 211 077, with whistleblowers assured of protection.

The press briefing also reviewed the conduct of the recently concluded Primary Leaving Examinations and Uganda Certificate of Education exams. UNEB reported a smooth field conduct across the country, with PLE held from November 3 to 6, 2025, and UCE from October 10 to November 7, 2025. The board congratulated candidates on completing the two stages successfully, despite a few challenges in some areas.

“We had a few cases of hardship areas during the conduct of PLE in districts like Lira and Katakwi,” the statement noted. 

The statement added, “In Lira, one of the routes, Itek Swamp, flooded, forcing our teams to transfer one of the schools, Agweng Modern Primary School, to another location. In Katakwi, eight schools were affected by heavy rains, but local authorities and the community worked together to ensure learners completed their exams.”

UNEB further disclosed that 55 suspects were arrested by Police in connection with malpractice during PLE. These cases mainly involved cutting of examination envelopes, attempted bribery of scouts, and teachers trying to provide external assistance to candidates.

In a separate incident, a head teacher in Kabale District, Kisheija Drake of Rwababa Primary School, was arrested for allegedly denying a duly registered pupil access to sit for PLE over a Shs70,000 charge meant for coaching. He was arraigned before Kabale Chief Magistrate’s Court on November 5, 2025, and granted bail. His case will come up for mention on December 16, 2025.

UNEB commended the Uganda Police Force and the Judiciary for their vigilance in ensuring examination integrity.

“We want to thank the Police and the Judicial officials for their vigilance,” Ms Kalule Musamba added.

The 2025 UACE examinations, which conclude the year’s national assessment cycle, follow the successful administration of PLE and UCE. The board has pledged to maintain transparency and fairness throughout the exercise.

“We reaffirm our commitment to the security and credibility of the examinations,” Ms Kalule Musamba said. 

Stories Continues after ad
1...363738...2,374Page 37 of 2,374

© Eagle Online. All rights reserved.

About Us

Popular Category

Editor Picks