Tension Erupts at Kawanda SS Over Headteacher Transfer as Parents Reject New Appointment

Tension has gripped Kawanda Secondary School in Sembabule District after parents, students, and teachers strongly opposed the transfer of the head teacher, sparking protests, a chaotic stakeholders’ meeting, and police deployment as authorities struggle to restore order.

Parents, students, and teachers at Kawanda Secondary School, a government-aided institution in Kawanda Sub-county, Sembabule District, have expressed strong dissatisfaction following the transfer of the school’s head teacher.

The parents said they are unwilling to accept the newly appointed head teacher, Mr David Lwebuga, insisting instead on retaining Mr Peter Muhwezi, whom they credit for significantly improving the school’s academic performance and overall development.

According to the parents, Mr Muhwezi has been instrumental in strengthening academic standards, with many learners reportedly performing well under his leadership.

They argue that his transfer is unjustified and risks reversing the progress the school has made.

Tensions escalated when education officials from the Kako Inspectorate, district authorities, parents, and teachers convened at the school to address the matter.

The meeting reportedly turned chaotic, with parents accusing the school board chairperson of frustrating efforts to resolve the dispute.

As the meeting broke down, students who had gathered outside reportedly began protesting, chanting and declaring that they would not accept the new head teacher deployed by the West Buganda Diocese.

Mr Lwebuga had been transferred from Katerero Church of Uganda Secondary School in Rakai District.

Police were deployed to calm the situation, although tensions remained high as stakeholders failed to reach consensus.

Parents reiterated their strong opposition, maintaining that Mr Muhwezi should remain in office, and accusing authorities of relying on what they termed “unverified and negative information” in effecting the transfer.

Speaking on the matter, Mr Muhwezi acknowledged disagreements among diocesan authorities over the transfer.

However, he said he does not oppose being moved, provided that proper procedures and legal guidelines are followed.

Officials from the West Buganda Diocese in Sembabule declined to comment on the controversy.

Parents have maintained their demand for Mr Muhwezi’s retention, citing his contribution to the school’s growth, stability, and improved academic performance.