Officials from the Inspectorate General of Government (IGG) have arrested the head teacher of Ntare School, Saul Rwampororo, his predecessor Jimmy Turyagyenda, and former school typist Peace Kebirungi over allegations of causing a financial loss of Shs 110.8 million to the government and abuse of office.
The trio was taken into custody on Wednesday after responding to summons at the IGG’s regional office in Mbarara City.
According to Sarah Magoola, the IGG Mbarara regional head, Mr Rwampororo and Mr Turyagyenda allegedly covered up illegalities committed by Ms Kebirungi, who presented a forged university admission letter in October 2015 to secure study leave with pay before subsequently absconding from her duties.
“Despite her absence, Ms Kebirungi illegally continued to draw a government salary from September 2015 to August 2024,” Ms Magoola said. “During this same timeframe, both Mr Turyagyenda and Mr Rwampororo routinely authorized the payment of allowances to Ms Kebirungi using funds collected from parents as school fees, falsely creating the impression that she was actively working.”
Investigative findings further reveal that in 2023, Ms Kebirungi applied for early retirement from the public service. Her application was vetted and forwarded by Mr Rwampororo despite her clear ineligibility due to her prolonged desertion. She officially retired in 2024 and was irregularly awarded terminal benefits, gratuity, and monthly pension payments.
A charge sheet obtained by this reporter shows that by February 6, 2026-the cutoff date for the inspectorate’s inquiry-Ms Kebirungi had fraudulently accumulated Shs 110,877,900 in salaries, allowances, and retirement benefits.
Ms Magoola confirmed that the accused officials will be arraigned before the Anti-Corruption Court in Kampala to face prosecution for abuse of office and causing financial loss. Mr Turyagyenda had previously retired from his post as Ntare School head teacher on April 27, 2023, after leading the institution for a decade.
However, in a statement issued on Wednesday evening, Ntare School management offered a different account of the day’s events, stating that Mr Rwampororo had returned to his duties after meeting with investigators.
“Earlier today, the Headmaster, Mr. Rwampororo Saul met with IGG officials to provide information and clarity regarding an ongoing investigation,” Ntare School said in the statement. “The Headmaster fully cooperated, immediately shared all requested details, and has since returned to school and resumed his official administrative school duties.”
The school administration also urged the public to disregard online rumors regarding the investigation.
“We are aware that unverified rumors and exaggerated narratives have quickly spread across digital platforms, generating unnecessary concern,” the statement added. “Ntare School remains deeply committed to transparency, integrity, and maintaining a safe, focused learning environment for our students. We encourage the public and all stakeholders to rely on official communication rather than social media speculation.”
Ntare School, situated in Mbarara City, stands as one of Uganda’s premier traditional secondary institutions. The historic school holds national and regional prominence, notably boasting an alumni network that includes Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and Rwandan President Paul Kagame.