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In trouble Robert Mugabe the Kitagwenda County NRM flagbearer
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MBALE
The Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) has officially recalled and cancelled a mature entry certificate issued to Robert Mugabe, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) parliamentary candidate for Kitagwenda County, Kitagwenda District. The certificate, No. IUKC-ME021MAY-139, was issued under the university’s Mature Age Entry Scheme after Mugabe sat for the May 2021 Aptitude Test.
In a letter dated January 2, 2026, the IUIU Academic Registrar, Dr. Adam A. Alli, informed Mugabe that the certificate had been nullified after the university determined that the documents he submitted to qualify for the test were obtained fraudulently. The university’s Executive Board confirmed the decision during its 382nd meeting held on December 31, 2025, which Mugabe attended alongside his legal representative.
Dr. Alli directed Mugabe to return the original certificate within 14 days, warning that failure to comply may lead to further administrative or legal action. Any rights, privileges or academic benefits arising from the cancelled certificate have been withdrawn.
Mugabe, a prominent political figure in Kitagwenda District, previously served as interim district chairperson and earned a local reputation for his role in the district’s early governance. He is also the NRM flag bearer for Kitagwenda County in the upcoming 2026 general elections.
His candidacy, however, has faced ongoing legal scrutiny over his academic qualifications. Several petitions filed with the Electoral Commission question whether his documents meet the minimum standards required by law for parliamentary candidates.
One petition alleges that his academic papers, including those presented to IUIU, do not equate to the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE), which is mandatory for eligibility.
Mugabe has denied any wrongdoing, describing the disputes as politically motivated attacks on his parliamentary bid. He insists that his academic qualifications are valid and that he remains eligible to contest the election.
The latest move by IUIU to cancel his mature entry certificate adds new weight to the debate over his qualifications and could potentially complicate his campaign. Political analysts say the decision may trigger further legal scrutiny and even delay confirmation of his eligibility.
Mugabe, also known locally as “Omutembuzi,” played a key role in the administration of Kitagwenda District during its establishment. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Public Administration at Bishop Stuart University in Mbarara, which remains valid.
The IUIU certificate cancellation pertains only to the mature entry document previously used to qualify for examinations.
Torch Media Africa
