Four alumni of the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) have petitioned the High Court in Mbale, seeking to overturn the renewal of Vice Rector for Finance and Administration Professor Kaziba Abdul Mpaata's contract. The alumni, Matsiko Muhsin, Nanteza Rahmah Kigozi, Nalwooza Hawa Mudide, and Ssejjemba Bashir, cite alleged financial irregularities and concerns about the independence of an ongoing investigation. They argue that the university council's decision to renew Mpaata's tenure on December 18, 2025, was made in disregard of relevant considerations and duties under the Islamic University in Uganda Act.
The internal audit findings that prompted the alumni's petition reportedly raised six issues, including variances between reported and system financial figures, procurement of CCTV cameras, and drilling of a production well at the university's Kampala campus. The audit also questioned fuel expenditure, which had reached 74 million Shillings in a year against a stated entitlement of 24 million Shillings. The alumni argue that allowing Mpaata to remain in office while the investigation proceeds could undermine its independence.
The applicants want the court to declare the university council's decision to renew Mpaata's contract null and void. They also seek to compel him to step aside pending completion of the inquiry and the lawful filling of the position, with the university council appointing another suitably qualified officer to act in his place. The alumni argue that Mpaata's reported employment at Busitema University, where he is listed as a professor, should have been considered before his contract was renewed.
The Islamic University in Uganda Act provides for university staff to serve on full-time terms unless otherwise provided. The alumni's petition raises questions about Mpaata's employment status and potential conflicts of interest. They are also seeking access to certified copies of the minutes and resolutions of the university council meeting held on December 18, 2025, Mpaata's current appointment instrument, and the records of the committee investigating the audit findings.
The alumni want the university to preserve all records relating to the investigation and ensure that it is conducted independently of management. They have also asked the court to protect university staff from possible retaliation for reporting or giving evidence concerning the matters under investigation. The applicants contend that the matter raises questions of accountability, access to public information, good governance, and protection of university resources.
The petition names Professor Dr. Mohammad A.S.E.A. Altabtabaei, the chairperson of the IUIU University Council, the university, and Professor Mpaata as respondents. The allegations are contained in the applicants' court filing and have not been established by a court. The respondents' responses were not included in the application reviewed.
The case will likely have implications for the governance and management of IUIU. The alumni are seeking enforcement of their constitutional rights under Articles 41, 42, and 45 of the Constitution. The court's decision will be closely watched by stakeholders in the education sector and beyond.
Key points
- IUIU alumni petition High Court to overturn Vice Rector's contract renewal over alleged financial irregularities
- Applicants seek to compel Vice Rector to step aside pending investigation into audit findings
- Case raises questions about accountability, governance, and protection of university resources
