Nakatuli Primary School in Galilaaya Sub-County, Kayunga District witnessed a tumultuous turn of events on Monday, March 12, 2024. Ms. Getrude Mutesi, the head teacher, found herself in police custody after aggrieved parents lodged complaints against her. The tumultuous scene unfolded following mounting dissatisfaction over the handling of a development fund totaling Shs7 million.
According to Mr. Yunus Ssebandeke, chairperson of the school’s Parents and Teachers Association (PTA), Ms. Mutesi’s arrest occurred during a meeting convened by local leaders and school authorities. The purpose of the gathering was to demand accountability for the aforementioned funds, which had sparked significant concern among stakeholders.
During the meeting, Ms. Mutesi faced mounting pressure to explain the utilization of the funds. Despite these demands, she failed to provide satisfactory explanations, leading to increased tension. Mr. Joel Kayiira, the Galilaaya sub-county councillor, recounted the events, noting that as frustration grew among parents, Ms. Mutesi faced accusations of mismanagement.
As tensions escalated, parents attempted to transport Ms. Mutesi to Kasokwe police station, located approximately 5 kilometers from the school. Amid cheers from pupils, the situation became increasingly charged as Ms. Mutesi pleaded for clemency. Eventually, she was taken to the police station on a motorcycle, escorted by concerned individuals.
In her defense, Ms. Mutesi refuted the allegations leveled against her, asserting her innocence. She maintained that the accusations were baseless and insisted that she faced no issues within her role as head teacher. However, Mr. Kayira revealed that Ms. Mutesi had previously admitted to misusing funds and had pledged to reimburse the embezzled amount. Yet, her subsequent repayment fell far short of expectations, further fueling discontent among stakeholders.
Mr. Dan Bubaale, the Kayunga District Education Officer, announced plans to recall Ms. Mutesi pending ongoing investigations. Highlighting a history of challenges associated with Ms. Mutesi’s tenure, he expressed intent to relieve her of her duties at the school. Meanwhile, Mr. Dan Ssegawa, the Officer in Charge of Nakatuli Police Station, confirmed that Ms. Mutesi faces charges of embezzlement, specifically relating to funds allocated for refurbishing classroom blocks.
