Masaka Court Gives NCHE Two Days to Explain Nambaziira’s Academic Qualifications

The Masaka High Court has given the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) two days to appear before it and explain issues surrounding the academic qualifications of Sembabule District Woman MP Florence Nambaziira.

The directive followed an application by lawyers representing Mary Begumisa, who is challenging Nambaziira’s academic credentials and whether she meets the educational requirements for holding the parliamentary seat.

During the proceedings, Begumisa’s lawyer, Isaac Ebiro Ekirapa, questioned how Nambaziira obtained a higher education certificate despite allegations that she did not complete Primary Seven and Senior Four.

Ekirapa told the court that NCHE’s involvement was necessary to establish the status and recognition of the academic documents in question.

He said the council had failed to appear before the court to address the matter, prompting him to seek an order compelling the institution to explain the circumstances surrounding the disputed qualifications.

Presiding over the case, Justice Christine Akello granted the application and directed NCHE to appear within two days to respond to the issues raised.

Begumisa also told the court that she had obtained documents concerning Nambaziira’s qualifications from the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT).

According to Begumisa, the documents indicate that Nambaziira holds a certificate in hair plaiting, hair washing and styling. She cited the documents as part of her challenge to the legislator’s academic credentials.

The court’s directive gives NCHE an opportunity to clarify its position on the qualifications under scrutiny as the legal dispute proceeds.

The allegations concerning Nambaziira’s educational background remain claims presented by the petitioner and her lawyer. The council’s response and the court’s eventual determination will be important in establishing the status of the disputed qualifications.

The case is ongoing.