Self-poisoned Mak student fights for life 

Isaac Byaruhanga, a medical student at Makerere University, is fighting for his life after poisoning himself following his suspension from the university.

Vice Chancellor Prof Barnabas Nawangwe suspended Byaruhanga for participating in an unauthorized electoral debate that took place on April 5, 2023, in Mitchell hall.

“You particularly started the fight that resulted in the severe injury of one of the university students, a one Robert Sserunjogi, who is, as a result, currently hospitalized at Makerere University hospital,” Prof Nawangwe said.

Thereafter, Byaruhanga sought to clear his name in a leaked WhatsApp chat with the university dean of students, Winifred Kabumbuli.

“Dear Dean, I think there wasn’t a thorough investigation and inquiry before making that report…The most unfortunate part is that those who participated in the beating of the student were not even given a warning letter,” Byaruhanga wrote in part.

In her response, Kabumbuli urged him to let security know who the culprits were and write immediately to the vice chancellor if he didn’t participate in the fight.

To this, Byaruhanga said: “I was thinking of engaging the courts of law because this is really too much. It is affecting my mental health. You can’t suspend someone based on allegations.”

Kabumbuli replied: “It is not advisable to go to court, but you may consult the legal team. In the meantime, I guide you to seek support from the guidance center and your warden for guidance,”

Byaruhanga retorted: “I was thinking of taking poison today at 4pm in Mitchell hall. I hope that will make all of you happy once I die. Trust me, you can’t oppress me like this, dean,”

To this, Kabumbuli replied; “Let me inform the police about this, and if you are taking it personally, bye for now.”

Interviewed for this story, Prof Nawangwe said he couldn’t talk. Our efforts to speak to Kabumbuli were futile since she could neither pick up nor return our calls.