Prominent academic and activist Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo has been fined Shs30 million by the High Court after being found guilty of contempt of court over social media posts concerning Kampala International University (KIU).
High Court Civil Division Registrar Kintu Simon Zirintusa ordered Ssentongo to pay Shs10 million within 14 days or serve three months in civil prison.
He was also ordered to pay KIU Shs20 million in punitive damages, in addition to costs.
What Led To The Case?
The case stems from a defamation suit filed by KIU in 2025 after Ssentongo published posts on X raising concerns about the university’s handling of tuition fees and student grievances.
According to court documents, Ssentongo’s concerns included tuition fees allegedly paid by his late brother’s sons, which he claimed were not refunded or transferred as expected.
In December 2025, the court issued an injunction restraining Ssentongo from publishing information considered “injurious” to KIU.
The registrar has now ruled that some of his subsequent posts breached the court order, leading to the contempt finding and financial penalties.
Ssentongo Defends His Actions
Ssentongo has maintained that his actions were carried out in the public interest, while his supporters argue that the case raises questions about freedom of expression and public scrutiny of institutions.
KIU, however, maintains that the posts contained unsubstantiated allegations that damaged the university’s reputation.
The ruling has since triggered debate online, with some of Ssentongo’s supporters rallying behind him and calling for financial assistance to help meet the penalties.
The development comes shortly after Ssentongo was recognised with the Kofi Annan Courage in Cartooning Award, placing him under further public attention.
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