In Namisindwa District, Eastern Uganda, a high-stakes political standoff has erupted after Assistant Resident District Commissioner (ARDC) Bosco Nabonge exposed massive irregularities in school enrollment figures. His revelations, which point to a deeply rooted ghost pupils scam siphoning public education funds, have triggered demands for his removal.

The district’s LC5 Chairperson, Jackson Wakweika, has formally petitioned the Ministry of the Presidency to transfer Nabonge, citing allegations of misconduct, harassment, and unprofessional behavior. In his letter dated April 2, 2025, Wakweika accused Nabonge of “creating institutional conflict” and claimed that his continued presence disrupts service delivery and tarnishes the district’s image.

Wakweika further alleged that the ARDC solicits bribes from school heads, harasses female staff, and disregards collaboration with local political leaders. He also claimed Nabonge doubles as a court broker—an accusation aimed at questioning the RDC’s neutrality in public service.

However, Nabonge says the accusations are a smear campaign launched by individuals threatened by his recent anti-corruption efforts. Speaking to the press, he stated, “What we found in Namisindwa schools is shocking. In one school, 688 students were listed, but only 115 were present. This pattern is repeated across several institutions.”

Schools such as Kutsuyi Primary and Situyi Primary revealed major gaps between registered and actual student numbers, raising concerns over fraudulent diversion of public funds.

Nabonge is calling for swift intervention by national anti-corruption bodies and urges local leaders to prioritize transparency over politics. “This is public money meant for children’s education. We should be fixing the rot—not defending it,” he added.

Meanwhile, Namisindwa District Education Officer Sophie Kuloba confirmed plans for an internal audit to verify actual student numbers. Community voices, such as that of local activist Rogers Wanambwa, have rallied behind Nabonge. “This man is the only RDC who has dared to take on entrenched corruption,” Wanambwa said.

Despite the support from sections of the public, Wakweika remains firm in his stance, claiming Nabonge’s leadership style is divisive and incompatible with government goals like the Parish Development Model (PDM).

As of now, the Ministry of the Presidency has yet to comment publicly on the matter.

This unfolding saga highlights persistent challenges in Uganda’s public sector accountability, particularly within the education system. Whether Bosco Nabonge’s fate will spark reform or be a cautionary tale remains to be seen.