Ntare School Headteacher Arrested Over Shs110m Financial Loss

What the report says

The Inspectorate of Government says it has arrested Ntare School headteacher Saul Rwamporo, his predecessor Jimmy Turyagenda and former school typist Peace Kebirungi over allegations tied to a financial loss of Shs110.8 million to the government. According to the IG, the arrests were made by its Mbarara Regional Office and relate to suspected abuse of office and irregular payments of salaries, allowances and retirement benefits.

The anti-corruption body alleges that Kebirungi used a false university admission letter in 2015 to secure study leave with pay, then stayed away from duty while continuing to receive a government salary for years. Investigators also allege that the two headteachers concealed her absence and approved allowance payments from school fees, giving the appearance that she was still working at the school.

The IG further says Kebirungi later applied for early retirement, with Rwamporo forwarding the request despite her alleged ineligibility because she had been absent for so long. She is also alleged to have received terminal benefits, including gratuity and pension, after retiring in 2024. The suspects have been transferred to Kampala and are expected to appear before the Anti-Corruption Court.

The case is significant because it highlights continued scrutiny of public payroll and school spending in Uganda. The allegations have not been tested in court, and the individuals remain presumed innocent unless proved guilty.