A teacher has been remanded to prison after he was accused of impersonating a senior government official in the Ministry of Education and Sports and allegedly defrauding parents of millions of shillings by promising to secure school placements for their children.
Duncan Keith Ayebare, 48, a resident of Gita–Nangabo in Kasangati Town Council, Wakiso District, is facing charges of obtaining money by false pretences and personation.
He appeared before Grade One Magistrate Winnie Nankya Jatiiko, where he was formally charged and later remanded until June 24, pending further hearing before the Chief Magistrate’s Court.
Court documents indicate that Ayebare allegedly obtained Shs1.4 million from Gilbert Siima in January 2026, claiming he could secure a vacancy for Siima’s son at Ntare School. In a separate incident, he is said to have received Shs1.2 million from Ann Kukunda with a similar promise of admission for her son at a prestigious school in Mbarara.
Prosecutors argue that the assurances were knowingly false and intended to defraud desperate parents seeking placement for their children in top government-aided schools.
The state further alleges that Ayebare misrepresented himself over several years, presenting himself at different times as a commissioner attached to the Ministry, the Office of the First Lady, and even as a State House employee.
Investigations indicate that between 2023 and 2026, the accused capitalised on his professional connections, including his association with an Assistant Commissioner in the Ministry, to build credibility among members of the public. He reportedly worked as a consultant with Bridge International before allegedly expanding his network of influence.
Authorities further claim that Ayebare was invited to officiate at various school events as a chief guest, appearances that allegedly helped reinforce his false identity. Among the institutions where he is said to have presided over functions are Lubiri Secondary School, Gayaza Junior School Jungo Campus, and Mbarara Junior School.
The prosecution also alleges that he at times used a government vehicle and driver assigned to a senior education ministry official during some of the engagements, further strengthening his claimed authority. Intelligence reports later reportedly established that he was not a government commissioner as he had portrayed himself.
During questioning, prosecutors say Ayebare admitted that he had attended school functions in an official capacity and received money from at least three parents while presenting himself as a Ministry of Education official. The case will return to court later this month for further proceedings.
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