Fresh criticism has emerged against Dr. Lawrence Muganga, the Vice Chancellor of Victoria University, following his claims that he recorded proceedings of Parliament’s Appointments Committee during his vetting for a ministerial position.
The remarks have intensified debate around his rejection, with political strategist Egesa Ronald arguing that Muganga’s own statements raise serious questions about his judgment and suitability for public office, particularly in a sensitive security docket.
“The good VC Dr Muganga proves his detractors, doubters and haters RIGHT, by boasting about recording the proceedings of the Parliament vetting committee,” Egesa stated.
Muganga had earlier suggested he possesses audio evidence from the vetting session, which he claims could expose bias within the committee. However, there has been no official confirmation from Parliament regarding the existence of such recordings.
Egesa argued that the claim alone points to potential risks had Muganga been approved as Minister of State for Internal Affairs, a role that requires strict confidentiality.
“That if he had made it to Cabinet, he could easily record Cabinet proceedings and who knows where they would end up,” he said, raising concerns about possible breaches of trust within government.
The strategist also questioned Muganga’s response to criticism following his rejection, describing it as a sign of limited tolerance to pressure associated with public office.
“That he has such a thin skin that he cannot manage disappointment and online trolling… that comes with occupying public office,” Egesa added.
Further, he accused Muganga of appearing vindictive in his public remarks about parliamentary officials, suggesting it reflects negatively on his leadership temperament.
“That he is such a vindictive person who will victimise an official who is simply doing his job,” he said.
Egesa also dismissed Muganga’s academic credentials as insufficient in addressing what he termed gaps in public administration skills.
“That his academic accomplishments aside, he needs to go to the Uganda Management Institute to get basic training in how to handle public affairs,” he stated.
Muganga, a former academic administrator now leading Victoria University, was rejected by Parliament’s Appointments Committee over unresolved questions surrounding his citizenship status.
The committee reportedly found inconsistencies in his documentation, leading to his disqualification.
Despite the setback, Muganga has maintained that the process was unfair and insists he has evidence to support claims of bias during the vetting.