HRCU WEEKLY UPDATES: ISSUE NO.17 OF 2023
THE HUMAN RIGHTS
CENTRE UGANDA (HRCU)
WEEKLY UPDATE ON KEY
EMERGING HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES WITHIN THE WORKING ENVIROMENT OF HRDS IN UGANDA
THE WEEK OF 8TH
TO 14TH MAY, 2023
Dear reader,
Welcome to this new week!
In this week’s edition, we delve into important
national and global issues affecting humanity and the working environment of
human rights defenders. The updates
shine a spotlight on the increasing gun violence in the country (Uganda) where
within the course of last week, an
Indian businessman was shot and killed by a
police officer only identified as Wabwire Ivan and a security guard was shot dead in Makindye,
Kampala and another in Arua City. https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/security-guard-shot-dead-in-arua-city-4234252. Doctors continued with their
strike despite government appeals, which possess a big threat on the right to
health and life overall.
These and more incidents reveal that the country
continues facing a myriad of challenges in its pursuit of a just and equitable
society. The stories compiled here highlight additional dimensions of these
struggles. It thus becomes essential to address these issues comprehensively by
engaging governmental bodies, civil society organizations, and the
international community to effect meaningful and positive change. By amplifying
these stories, we hope to inspire awareness, empathy, and action toward
creating a Uganda where every individual's rights and fundamental freedoms are
respected, protected and realized.
Some of the detailed stories are:
PROMOTING
GENDER EQUALITY AND WOMEN’S RIGHTS: WOMEN FORM ENERGY NETWORK TO FIGHT
INEQUALITY
The
Women in Energy and Extractives Network (WEEN) was formed to fight gender
inequality and enhance the participation of females in the sector.
"WEEN
is a crucial initiative that will enable us to empower and support women
in the sector. The lack of women's representation in energy and extractives has
been a challenge, and we believe that through this network, we can bridge this
gap and enhance women's participation in the sector," Eng. Irene Pauline
Batebe, the Permanent Secretary of the Energy Ministry said in a May 10 press
statement.
The
WEEN, she said is committed to promoting gender equality and women's
empowerment in the energy and extractives sector.
According
to Eng. Batebe, the network will have corporate, enterprise, associate and
student members.
"The network will undertake activities such
as launch events, networking events, mentorship and coaching, capacity
building, and advocacy to achieve its objectives. The WEEN will organise
training and capacity-building sessions to enhance the skills and knowledge of
women in the sector, cover leadership, negotiation, and technical skills,"
she said
Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/women-form-energy-network-to-fight-inequality-4231268
MORE GUN VIOLENCE AS TWO SECURITY GUARDS GET SHOT
DEAD IN MAKINDYE, ARUA
A private security guard working with Capital Guards and Patrol was shot dead his colleague under unclear circumstances. Peter Ochoroi, 26, allegedly shot dead in the forehead his colleague, John Mujumbi, 25, also working with the same security company on Saturday at about 12.30 pm in Kalule Zone, Lukuli parish in Makindye Division in Kampala.
According to police, at the time of the shooting, Mujumbi was stationed at IDAK Apartments in Konge as part of his security duties. Police says the two individuals had been sharing a rented room provided by their company and were armed with SAR semi-automatic rifles, each loaded with five rounds of ammunition.
Kampala Metropolitan deputy police spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire says the two guards were engaged in an argument conducted in a language they did not understand and shortly thereafter, a gunshot was heard originating from the same room. Police recovered the two rifles, two small magazines, capable of holding five rounds each, and two sets of company uniforms were found in the room. Ochoroi is reportedly on the run.
The incident came just 24 hours after Ivan Wabwire, the police
constable on Friday at about 12.30 pm shot and killed Uttam Bhandari an Indian
national and moneylender inside Rajja Chambers along Parliament Avenue in
Kampala following a disagreement over a loan repayment.
Source: https://observer.ug/news/headlines/77767-private-security-guards-shoots-dead-colleague-in-makindye
NATURAL DISASTER: TRAVEL CHAOS AS
FLOODS CUT OFF MASAKA-KAMPALA ROAD
Public
commuter taxis plying the Kampala – Masaka highway rose transport fares due to
rising water levels at River Katonga Bridge, which led to a diversion of
traffic on the busy highway.
Traffic
on the highway was paralysed after flash floods submerged River Katonga Bridge
in Mpigi District, covering a section of about 200 metres of the road.
The fast-moving flood waters also reclaimed part
of the site near the bridge where the Uganda People’s Defence Forces plans to
erect a multibillion army museum.
All motorists taking the route either from
Masaka side or Kampala are currently required to use the Mpigi-Kanoni-
Sembabule – Villa Maria-Masaka Road, making the journey longer by 56km and
costing more fuel.
Passengers
using commuter taxis from Masaka to Kampala had to pay between Shs.25,000 and
Shs.30,000, up from Shs.15,000. Those taking the Kampala-Mbarara route were
charged between Shs.35,000 and Shs.40,000, a journey which has been costing
Shs.25,000.
River
Katonga burst its banks after it rained heavily on Wednesday night in Mpigi and
neighbouring districts of Gomba, Kalungu and Sembabule, where the river
connects from River Katonga flows through a number of districts, including
Mubende, Kiruhura, Sembabule, Butambala, Ibanda, Bukomansimbi, Mityana,
Kalungu, Gomba and Mpigi before it drains into Lake Victoria .
FOSTERING DEVELOPMENT AND
PARTNERSHIP: EU ASSURES UGANDA OF SUPPORT DESPITE STANCE ON ANTI-GAY BILL
The
European Union Ambassador to Uganda, Mr. Jan Sadek, said they are committed to
continue supporting the country’s development agenda despite their disagreement
with the Anti-Homosexuality Bill which was recently approved by Parliament.
Speaking at a function to celebrate Europe Day in Kampala on Tuesday, Mr. Sadek
said the continuous dialogue with the government over the matter indicates that
they have Uganda at heart.
“The
EU takes a great interest in Uganda. The EU wants to build a strong partnership
with Uganda, on the political side, on cooperation, and on trade and investment,
working with all segments of Ugandan society. We have a continuous and
broad-based dialogue with the Government, and we share the same views in many
areas,” Sadek said
These
comments came in the wake of international bodies, and development partners threatening
to withhold much needed aid because of the Bill that they say is against their
foreign policies and basic human rights.
INDUSTRIAL
ACTION: GOV'T COMMITTED TO NEGOTIATIONS WITH STRIKING MEDICS
Government
has asked striking doctors to return to work as they engage in negotiation to
see how their grievances can be addressed. Senior house officers (SHOs) earlier
this month started their sit-down strike protesting delayed payment of their
allowances.
On
the other hand, specialized doctors who include; gynecologists, surgeons, and
pediatricians announced a strike Wednesday night over salary increment to join
medical interns who are also on strike.
Addressing
journalists at the Uganda Media Centre, the Minister for Public Service, Wilson
Muruuli Mukasa said the medical officers and the specialized doctors should
rethink their action as they negotiate with the government.
Muruuli
Mukasa said striking is not necessary at this time and in the form it has been
done since they have already got over 90% salary enhancement.
Source:
https://capitalradio.co.ug/news/2023-05-11-govt-committed-to-negotiations-with-striking-medics/
ADMINISTRATION OF
JUSTICE: BUTEERA TASKS COURT OF APPEAL, SUPREME COURT JUDGES ON TEAMWORK,
RESPECT
The
Deputy Chief Justice, Richard Butera called for teamwork and unity among the
Court of Appeal and Supreme Judges.
Speaking
at the closure of the induction and retreat for judges of the Court of Appeal
and Supreme Court on Friday, Buteera said that it was important that each of
the judges took care of each other’s emotions as they went on with their work,
even if disagreed.
“As we play our roles we should be sensitive
to the needs, challenges, and feelings of our colleagues. They are human like
us. We should always ensure that the manner in which we execute our functions
promotes cordiality and collegiality. Respecting supervisors and colleagues
creates a harmony that in turn promotes the mutual exchange of ideas that
translates into a peaceful working environment,” Buteera said.
On
the issue of case backlog, Buteera said that the public was anxious to receive
their service and in a timely manner while avoiding the accumulation of
backlog.
CONCLUDING REMARKS
1.
Gun
violence has far-reaching effects on human rights, violating the fundamental
principles of life, security, and freedom. The impact of gun violence extends
beyond immediate physical harm, permeating communities and societies, undermining
trust, impeding social progress, and inhibiting the enjoyment of basic human
rights. By prioritizing the reduction of gun violence, societies can safeguard
human rights, foster safer environments, and work towards creating a Uganda
where every individual can live a life free from the pervasive threat of
firearms.
2.
Promoting
gender equality and protecting women's rights in Uganda is both a moral
imperative and a strategic investment in the country's future. By empowering
women, ensuring equal opportunities, combating discrimination, and addressing
gender-based violence, Uganda can harness the full potential of its female
population. By championing gender equality, Uganda takes a significant step
towards building a brighter future for its citizens and becoming a shining
example of progress in the region.
3. Doctor
strikes have significant effects on healthcare systems in Uganda. The
disruption of healthcare services, delayed medical procedures, increased
pressure on remaining healthcare staff, public health concerns, strained
doctor-patient relationships, and socioeconomic impacts are some of the
consequences that arise when doctors go on strike. Balancing the rights and
concerns of healthcare professionals is a complex challenge that requires
dialogue, negotiation, and proactive measures to address grievances and prevent
prolonged disruptions in healthcare delivery.
4.
The
EU is a critical partner in Uganda's development journey, providing significant
financial and technical support across multiple sectors. The EU's support has
been instrumental in promoting democratic governance, strengthening
institutions, fostering economic growth, and addressing environmental
challenges. The EU's commitment to sustainable development, regional
integration, and respect for human rights aligns with Uganda's development
aspirations, making the EU a valuable partner for Uganda's progress. As Uganda
continues to pursue its development agenda, cooperation with the EU remains
crucial for achieving sustainable and inclusive development by Uganda.
Join us next week as we continue to
explore critical issues shaping Uganda and the world.
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