KAMPALA UGANDA: 08 October 2026— Makerere University management has directed Dr. Faisal Buyinza, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Economic Theory and Analysis, to immediately step aside from his leadership duties pending the outcome of a full investigation into allegations of sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and gender-based violence.
The directive is part of an official communication signed on October 7, 2026, by Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Sarah N. Ssali (Ref: MAK/VC/1303/26), multiple allegations that Dr Buyinza neglected family obligations but also caused physical harm to his spouse. The step-aside measure applies to the department headship as well as any other administrative role Dr. Buyinza holds within the university.
“With immediate effect and for the duration of the investigation, Dr. Buyinza has been directed to step aside from the headship of the Department of Economic Theory and Analysis and from any other leadership or administrative position he holds in the University.” Professor Sarah Ssali – Ag Vice Chancellor stated.
During this period, the Dean of the School of Economics will oversee the department. Dr. Buyinza has also been strictly instructed not to contact, influence, or interfere with any complainants or witnesses.
Clarifying the nature of the directive, management emphasized that stepping aside is a protective administrative measure to safeguard the integrity of the inquiry rather than a disciplinary sanction or finding of guilt. Should the investigative committee establish a case to answer, the matter will be forwarded to the university’s Appointments Board for formal disciplinary hearings.
The six-member committee, chaired by Eng. Assoc. Prof. Dorothy K. Okello, Dean of the School of Engineering, has been mandated to submit its final report to the Vice-Chancellor no later than Friday, November 6, 2026.
Investigative Committee Members include:
Eng. Assoc. Prof. Dorothy K. Okello — Dean, School of Engineering (Chairperson), Prof. Engineer Bainomugisha — Principal, College of Computing and Information Sciences, Dr. Christine Mbabazi Mpyangu — Department of Religion and Peace Studies, Ms. Sumaiyah Nanyondo Sebuta — Legal Advisor
Dr. Joelia Nasaka — School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources
Mr. Deus T. Mujuni — Chief Human Resource Officer (Secretary)
The university noted that while some of the allegations were subject to police investigations and criminal proceedings between 2011 and 2014, Makerere maintains an independent duty under its Sexual Harassment Policy, Safeguarding Policy, and Human Resources Manual to conduct an internal inquiry.
Management guaranteed strict confidentiality, dignity, and protection from intimidation or retaliation for all individuals coming forward to give evidence.
“The University guarantees that anyone who takes part in, or provides information to, this process will be protected from intimidation, victimisation or retaliation. I also appeal to all members of the University community to engage on this matter responsibly, including on social media, and to avoid comments that could expose complainants, intimidate witnesses or prejudice a fair process.” Professor Sarah noted.
The university also appealed to the public and university community to avoid social media commentary that could intimidate witnesses or prejudice the ongoing proceedings.