For years, Prof. Waswa Balunywa walked the corridors of Makerere University Business School (MUBS) with an air of certainty. Colleagues say he believed he was untouchable, a man who had built the institution’s reputation and would never be caught in controversy. But that confidence faded this week when he stood in the dock at the Anti-Corruption Court, listening as the judge ordered him to Luzira Prison until September 5, 2025, when his bail application will be heard.

Prosecution alleges that between February and April 2023, Prof. Balunywa irregularly recruited three administrative assistants without the required qualifications, causing unnecessary costs to government. He also faces fresh charges for the illegal appointment of 103 academic staff, 17 administrative staff, and 69 support staff, appointments that should have been handled by the official Appointments Committee.

The case has triggered a national debate. For years, MUBS has been seen as a top business school, but the allegations raise questions about accountability in public universities. How much oversight exists over recruitment? Are the allowances and funds allocated to universities being used effectively? If money is provided, why do gaps that enable irregular appointments persist?

Critics point to allowances and facilitation funds as areas vulnerable to abuse. Senior officials often control travel allowances, per diems, and recruitment budgets with little oversight. This has raised public concern: Is the money given to universities enough, or is it being misused? If irregular spending continues, how will genuine staff and students benefit from resources intended to support education?

As the court date approaches, Prof. Balunywa faces possible conviction and a damaged legacy. For MUBS, the trial is a test of credibility and financial integrity. The bigger question for Uganda remains: Will this case spark reforms in how allowances, appointments, and resources are managed in public institutions?