Suspended in Disgrace: Bushenyi RDC Atuhairwe Faces Imprisonment Over Surprising His Underage S3 Girlfriend On Her Birthday

A shocking allegation has thrown Bushenyi Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Robert Atuhairwe into the spotlight, threatening his career and freedom.

A senior three student at Bweranyangi Girls Secondary School has accused Atuhairwe of engaging in a romantic relationship with her, sparking widespread outrage and prompting an investigation by the President’s Office.

The controversy began when the student boasted to her peers about her alleged relationship with Atuhairwe, leaving classmates stunned and disbelieving. As the news spread, students began referring to Atuhairwe as their “brother-in-law.” The situation took a dramatic turn on September 27, when Atuhairwe arrived at the school gate with his guards to deliver a birthday cake to the student, further fueling speculation.

Bishop Johnson Twinomujuni of West Ankole Diocese intervened, alerting parents who expressed concern over powerful individuals preying on vulnerable daughters. The President’s Office took swift action, directing Atuhairwe to respond to the allegations.

In a letter dated October 13, Yunus Kakande, Permanent Secretary in the Presidency Ministry, informed Atuhairwe of impending disciplinary action. Kakande emphasized the gravity of the allegations, stating they “warrant proper and detailed explanation” and “bring the service into disrepute” according to Public Service Standing Orders (2021).

“The allegations against you are serious in nature, therefore warrants your proper and detailed explanation,” Kakande wrote.

“When I perused through your personal statement, I found a lot of gaps and uncoordinated story which brings doubt into the mind of the right-thinking member of the public. Take note that as a public servant, you are governed by Public Standing Orders (2021) and code of conduct, ethics and integrity in the public service. Therefore, leaving such allegations without invoking the law and regulations compromises the integrity of the presidency and service at large.”

He added that Atuhairwe’s actions “bring the service into disrepute” according to the Public Service Standing Orders (2021) and that “this tantamounts to misconduct which may also result into a criminal matter.”

Atuhairwe’s suspension was announced, effective six months, pending investigation. Deputy RDC Kasigazi William Donanto will assume his duties, and Atuhairwe’s monthly facilitation allowance will be suspended starting November 1, 2024.

“As a result, the Office of the President has directed that Mr Atuhairwe step aside from his duties as RDC while an investigation and disciplinary procedures are conducted, with a conclusion expected within six months,” wrote Kakande.

“During this period, Mr Atuhairwe’s office will be handed over to the Deputy RDC, Mr Kasigazi William Donanto, and his monthly facilitation allowance will be suspended effective 1st November 2024.”

With his career hanging in the balance, Atuhairwe has 10 days to submit a written defense. He will face the Rewards and Sanctions Committee to defend himself, and depending on his response, may lose his job or face criminal charges.

“Your explanation which shall be considered as your written defence shall be used during the proceedings against you, by the Rewards and Sanctions Committee of the Office of the President, if a prima facie case is proved,” Kakande further informed RDC Robert Atuhairwe.

“This should reach this Office within 10 days from the date of this letter. Therefore, at an appropriate time, you will be summoned to appear physically and defend yourself.”

This incident echoes a similar controversy involving another RDC who was suspended for labeling Speaker Anita Among “corrupt and murderer” and refusing to apologize. The RDC later claimed his life was in danger.As the investigation unfolds, Atuhairwe’s fate remains uncertain. Will he clear his name, or become the latest casualty of misconduct among public servants?