74 Arrested for 2026 PLE Examination Malpractice in Uganda

The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has announced that 74 people have been arrested over suspected examination malpractice during the recently concluded 2026 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE). According to UNEB spokesperson Jennifer Kalule-Musamba, 11 of those arrested have already appeared in court, while investigations into the remaining cases are still ongoing. No convictions had been secured by the time of the announcement.

The arrests were made as the examinations body tightens security ahead of the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations, which commenced on Monday, November 9, 2026. UNEB has warned individuals involved in examination malpractice that they risk severe penalties under the UNEB Act, Cap 259. Those found guilty face fines of up to Shs40 million, imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both.

Kalule-Musamba specifically cautioned teachers and other individuals who facilitate candidates to illegally access examination papers, noting that they risk severe penalties. She also pointed to Section 26 of the Act, which provides for penalties against invigilators and examination scouts who negligently allow malpractice under their supervision. Such officers risk fines of up to Shs20 million or imprisonment for up to five years.

UNEB has also warned candidates against falling victim to social media groups demanding money in exchange for purported access to UNEB examination papers. According to Kalule-Musamba, no individual can legitimately obtain examination papers ahead of candidates before the officially scheduled examination time. She described such offers as scams.

To strengthen monitoring and safeguard the ongoing UACE examinations, UNEB has deployed more than 1,000 scouts, alongside security and surveillance personnel across the country. The Board has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the integrity, security and credibility of national examinations.

The UACE examinations have attracted 203,809 candidates, marking a 22.4% increase in candidature. UNEB has assured the public that it is taking all necessary measures to prevent examination malpractice and ensure the credibility of the examinations.

The Board's efforts to prevent examination malpractice and ensure the credibility of national examinations are ongoing. Candidates, teachers, and other stakeholders are urged to report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities. The public is also advised to be vigilant and report any attempts to compromise the integrity of the examinations.

Key points

• 74 people arrested for suspected examination malpractice during 2026 PLE
• 11 arrested individuals have already appeared in court
• UNEB deploys over 1,000 scouts to monitor UACE examinations