The recent fire that razed a dormitory at Kivaywa Boys High School has reignited public debate over the leadership and governance of one of Lugari Constituency’s senior learning institutions.
The blaze, which occurred on the Sunday evening of July 5, 2026, destroyed the students’ dormitory and forced Form Three students to be sent home as investigations into the cause of the incident got underway. The students have been ordered to report back on Friday with their parents or guardians.
Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera, a former student of the school who has maintained close ties with the institution, reportedly visited the institution on the same day to console students, teachers and parents following the incident. During the visit, the legislator assured the school community of his support as they begin the recovery process.
However, the fire has also revived longstanding criticism from a section of local leaders, alumni and residents, who accuse the MP of exercising undue influence over the school’s affairs. The critics allege that his involvement extends beyond alumni engagement and into the administration of the institution.
Nabwera has previously denied allegations that he interferes with the management of the school.
Among the most vocal critics is teacher and political commentator Moses Gazemba, who also studied in the school, who has repeatedly argued that Kivaywa Boys should be managed independently by its Board of Management and education professionals.
According to Gazemba, political interests have increasingly found their way into the running of the institution, a situation he claims has contributed to instability. These claims remain disputed and have not been substantiated by official investigations.
Concerns have also been raised over the school’s academic trajectory in recent years. Education stakeholders note that Kivaywa Boys, once regarded as one of the leading secondary schools in Lugari Constituency, has experienced a gradual decline in academic performance compared to previous years. While critics attribute this to governance challenges, no official report has linked the decline to any individual or specific administrative decisions.
Supporters of the MP maintain that his involvement reflects his commitment to the welfare and development of his former school. They argue that, as an alumnus and the area’s elected representative, Nabwera has a legitimate interest in supporting the institution during periods of crisis and in championing development projects that benefit learners.
