Kampala, Uganda – Amid growing concerns over governance and financial accountability, rumors have emerged that the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) may be considering the removal of Mr. Balojja Darlington Tom from his position as Chairman of the Board of Governors at Old Kampala Secondary School and Kitante Primary School, where he has served for two terms.
While no official decision has been made, reports indicate that discussions have taken place within KCCA and the school’s governing structures regarding allegations of financial misconduct, conflict of interest, and disregard for institutional procedures. Sources suggest that Dr. Jones, the current Vice Chairman, may be positioned to assume leadership should a change occur.
A Breakdown of the Allegations and Concerns
A high-level meeting was held on April 1, 2025, chaired by the Lord Mayor and attended by the KCCA Directorate of Education, the District Secretary for Education, and the Board of Governors. The meeting sought to address a wave of allegations tied to financial irregularities and a breakdown in board governance.
Key resolutions from the meeting included:
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Improved Financial Transparency: Mandating full access to financial reports for all board members and reinstating the Finance Committee’s oversight role.
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Internal Conflict Resolution: Encouraging a board retreat to resolve differences amicably rather than escalate divisions.
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Consultation with KCCA: Reinforcing the requirement for the Board to consult KCCA before involving the Ministry of Education.
However, reports claim that Mr. Balojja allegedly ignored these resolutions, which has intensified pressure from stakeholders for his removal.
Allegations Facing the Chairman
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Unauthorized Budget Alterations
The 2025 financial year budget was reportedly altered by Mr. Balojja and the Head Teacher without consulting the Finance Committee, contrary to earlier board agreements. -
Conflict of Interest in Financial Approvals
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Six million shillings was allegedly paid to Deputy Head Teacher Madam Jane (March–June 2024) without board authorization.
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Mr. Balojja allegedly awarded himself 400,000 shillings as a “token of appreciation” for academic results, again without approval.
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During a PTA Executive meeting in early 2025, he reportedly allocated himself 400,000 shillings and 300,000 to the Head Teacher, breaching guidelines.
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Disparity in Allowances
Allowances paid during the April 1 meeting reportedly showed discrepancies:
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Mr. Balojja: 800,000 shillings
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Head Teacher: 600,000
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Other Board members: 200,000 each
An Easter package was also said to have been unequally distributed, with some board members receiving nothing.
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Alleged Misuse of Funds for Bribery
Over seven million shillings was withdrawn under the pretext of facilitating a security probe into stolen tablets. However, sources allege the funds were used to shield the Head Teacher from accountability over the disappearance of 125 school tablets. -
Failure to Convene Required Board Meetings
Despite written requests, Mr. Balojja reportedly refused to convene special board meetings as required by the Education Act, Third Schedule Section 11(6), which mandates action within 14 days of a request by half the board. -
Irregular Staff Recruitment
Mr. Balojja is accused of supporting the recruitment of over seven staff members and an External Auditor in 2025 without proper board vetting or approval. -
Non-Implementation of Board Resolutions
Key resolutions that remain unimplemented include:
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Issuing 22 football bursaries
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Halting unauthorized cash receipts
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Submitting minutes to the Ministry
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Hiring a football coach
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Granting access to financial records
Legal Authority and Next Steps
Although Mr. Balojja remains in his position, the Education Act (Part VI, Regulation 29) allows the foundation body—KCCA—to recall and replace its representatives, with a limit of two replacements per year.
What Lies Ahead for Old Kampala SSS?
With pressure mounting and discussions ongoing, stakeholders are watching closely. If the leadership transition occurs, many hope Dr. Jones will bring renewed transparency and compliance with governance standards. For now, the school community awaits an official statement from KCCA.
