By Deus Kamunyu
Dear Friends,
Greetings to you all.
Yesterday in the morning hours, I received electronic news of my suspension letter from Makerere University as a Lecturer in the Department of Forestry, Biodiversity and Tourism. I received it with honour simply because I had known it was coming since April 2018.
This is the time when I was first warned to cease and desist from talking, as a Chairman Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA), about land problems, corruption and the undermining of our employment systems by the Chairman Appointments Board at Makerere University. This kick-started the fabrications against me as a person to this end.
You may also have realized that the letter suspending me was very vague, harsh, in bad faith and against all laws of this country. It even undermines my rights as a citizen to have access to my official home, public buildings and related services. The Letter unfairly portrays me as a criminal, but you know me better than that.
In the circumstances, my lawyers, friends and all concerned citizens are studying the suspension details with a view of giving appropriate advice. My next step will be made known to you soon.
At the moment, I am very grateful for the outpouring of support from my family, friends and colleagues at Makerere University and beyond. You have encouraged, energized and enlightened me and I am proud to know that you are all conscious of your rights and duties as citizens.
I hope that all employees at Makerere University will understand my suspension in the context of our struggle for a well run 21st-century University, where the dignity and opinion of each member is respected by all. Today is me and tomorrow is someone else. Intellectuals debate and disagree to generate knowledge and progress. When this is branded indiscipline, knowledge creation inevitably dies and the end of human dignity and achievement beckons. Let universities remain universities and allow robust debates and disagreements to freely ensue.
We build for the Future. For God and My Country.
Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi (PhD)
(But, as you know, Citizen First)
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Mr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi (PhD) is the Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA)
