Political and social commentator Frank Gashumba has defended Prof. Dr Lawrence Muganga following controversy over his rejected ministerial appointment, insisting that the Victoria University Vice Chancellor was neither seeking employment nor motivated by financial gain.
Gashumba, a close ally of Muganga, dismissed narratives suggesting that the academic was desperate for a government position, arguing that his current leadership role already provides him with a stable and well-paying career.
“People should stop portraying him as someone who was looking for a job. He already had a very good job and was earning well,” Gashumba said.
His remarks come days after Parliament’s Appointments Committee rejected Muganga’s nomination to cabinet, citing concerns linked to his citizenship status, amid claims that he holds or has held dual nationality involving Uganda, Canada and Rwanda.
The committee reportedly raised questions over compliance with constitutional requirements governing public office holders, particularly in sensitive ministries such as Internal Affairs, where issues of citizenship and national identity are central to the docket’s mandate.
The decision has since sparked debate in political and academic circles, with supporters and critics offering contrasting interpretations of Muganga’s acceptance of the nomination.
Gashumba further argued that financial motivation was not a factor in Muganga’s decision to accept the presidential nomination, insisting that the academic’s acceptance was driven by duty and respect for the appointing authority.
“He accepted because he wanted to serve his country and because declining a presidential appointment would have sent the wrong message,” Gashumba said.
According to him, rejecting a presidential offer is often interpreted within political circles as a sign of disregard or unwillingness to cooperate with the Head of State, a perception Muganga allegedly sought to avoid.
The controversy has continued to draw attention to Uganda’s legal framework on dual citizenship and eligibility for high-level public office, particularly in positions tied to national security and immigration administration.
While Uganda allows dual citizenship under specific conditions, constitutional interpretations have remained central in determining eligibility for cabinet appointments, especially where questions of loyalty and national interest arise.