HRCU WEEKLY ANALYSIS 10TH - 16TH MARCH 2025
THE
WEEK OF 10TH TO 16TH MARCH 2025
Dear Reader,
The Human
Rights Centre Uganda welcomes you to this new week!
We hope you are moving well in all that you do.
As we continue our mission to promote and protect human rights, we are excited
to share our latest weekly updates with you.
Our updates cover key emerging issues affecting
human rights defenders (HRDs) in Uganda, highlighting the challenges they face
and the progress they have made. From February 10th-14th, 2025, we
observed several developments that warrant attention and action.
Through these updates, we aim to spark
meaningful conversations, inspire collective action, and ultimately advance the
promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms in Uganda and
worldwide.
Before relaying what transpired in the news, we
wish to share with you our brief analysis of the week as below:
THE ANALYSIS:
- The fact that NRM Party through its Central Executive Committee rejected the results of the Kawempe North By-election raises concerns about Uganda’s electoral processes. The instruction to the Party’s legal team to take the matter to Courts of Law leaves citizens in suspense as to what the real outcome shall be. Let us watch the space as the events unfold. Whatever the case might be, fairness and justice for all is the desired position.
- Resurgence of electoral violence in Kawempe is a stark reminder of Uganda’s ongoing challenges in ensuring free, fair, and peaceful elections. While political competition is vital for democracy, the cycle of violence undermines public confidence in the electoral process and threatens stability. Addressing these issues requires stronger enforcement of electoral laws, impartial security interventions, and a commitment from all political actors to uphold democratic principles and respect for voters' rights.
- The conviction of Justice Mugambe of slavery in the UK is a revelation people are watching our steps, marking all we do and hearing the words that we say. These are matters of proof and time. Ultimately, all actions amounting to slavery and servitude are condemned under Articles 25 and 44 (b) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, 1995 (as amended) which provides for freedom from slavery or servitude as one of the nonderogable rights.
- The extension of the Karuma bridge closure until March 17th suggests ongoing maintenance or structural concerns that require more time to resolve. This may impact transportation and logistics in the affected areas, necessitating alternative routes for travelers and businesses.
- The state’s request to hack Dr. Kizza Besigye’s phones in his treason case has sparked concerns about privacy and political persecution. While authorities justify it for national security and evidence collection, critics warn it could set a dangerous precedent for digital surveillance and civil liberties in Uganda. The court’s decision on this matter will have significant implications for both the case and broader human rights protections.
- Bail granted to Kampala Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura and fellow activists reinforces the legal principle that bail is a right, not a privilege. It highlights the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence. However, concerns remain over the selective application of justice, as opposition figures often face prolonged detentions. Ensuring fair and consistent enforcement of bail rights is essential for upholding the rule of law and protecting civil liberties.
- Court’s decision to grant bail to 22 National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters reinforces the fundamental right to bail and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. While this ruling offers temporary relief, it also highlights ongoing concerns about the frequent arrests and prolonged detentions of opposition supporters in Uganda. Ensuring that legal rights are upheld consistently for all citizens, regardless of political affiliation, remains essential in promoting justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
- Transition from Umeme to UEDCL marks a significant shift in Uganda’s electricity distribution sector. While this change promises improved service delivery and potentially lower costs, its success will depend on efficient management, investment in infrastructure, and customer satisfaction. Moving forward, transparency, accountability, and strategic planning will be crucial in ensuring a seamless transition and long-term benefits for consumers.
- Absence of comprehensive gender data in Uganda significantly hampers the development and execution of effective policies. Without accurate insights into gender-specific challenges, resource allocation, program design, and impact assessment remain inadequate. Addressing this gap through systematic data collection and analysis is crucial for fostering inclusive development, ensuring equitable opportunities, and driving meaningful social and economic progress.
- Strict enforcement of anti-corruption plans is crucial for accountability and governance in Uganda. Effective implementation requires political will, institutional independence, and strong oversight to restore public trust and improve service delivery.
- Uganda's deployment of special forces to South Sudan reflects growing regional tensions and security concerns. While aimed at stabilizing the situation, the move underscores the need for diplomatic solutions to prevent further conflict and ensure long-term peace.
- Court's order to remove colonial monuments in Kampala reflects a shift toward redefining public spaces to align with national identity and historical perspectives. This decision may spark debates on heritage preservation versus decolonization efforts, influencing future cultural and historical narratives in Uganda.
- U.S. aid cuts raise concerns about setbacks in malaria control, threatening access to vital resources and progress in eradication efforts.
- Detection of a new Ebola cluster in Uganda raises public health concerns, necessitating swift containment measures to prevent further spread.
The above analysis relates to the news items as
shared below:
NATIONAL UPDATE
KAWEMPE NORTH BY-ELECTION: NRM REJECTS RESULTS,
PLANS TO PETITION COURT
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has
rejected the results of the Kawempe North by-election, saying that they were
not free and fair. NRM Secretary-General Richard Todwong, while speaking to
journalists at the party headquarters on Saturday, said that they are going to
petition the court very soon, challenging the results.
The Kawempe North by-election, held on
Thursday, was marred by violence, with several people arrested and beaten,
including journalists covering the election process. Because of the violence,
15 polling stations in Kazo-Angola Parish did not submit election results to
the Electoral Commission, leading to the failure to declare the winner of the
Kazo-Angola councilor seat, which was also vacant.
Source: https://www.independent.co.ug/kawempe-north-by-election-nrm-rejects-results-plans-to-petition-court/
UN JUDGE GUILTY OF
FORCING WOMAN TO WORK AS SLAVE
A United Nations judge has been convicted of
forcing a young woman to work as a slave.
Prosecutors said Lydia Mugambe "took
advantage of her status" over her victim by preventing her from holding
down steady employment while forcing her to work as her maid and provide
childcare for free.
The 49-year-old, who is also a High Court judge
in Uganda, was found guilty of conspiring to facilitate the commission of a
breach of UK immigration law, facilitating travel with a view to exploitation,
forcing someone to work, and conspiracy to intimidate a witness.
She will be sentenced at Oxford Crown Court on
May 2.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn892zq6z43o
KARUMA BRIDGE CLOSURE EXTENDED TO MARCH 17TH
Authorities have extended the closure of Karuma Bridge until March 17 to complete essential maintenance and ensure public safety. Commuters are advised to follow alternative routes, and officials will provide further updates as repair work progresses.
Source: https://www.independent.co.ug/karuma-bridge-closure-extended-to-march-17/
TREASON CASE: STATE ASKS TO HACK DR. KIZZA
BESIGYE’S PHONES
The Ugandan government is seeking court
permission to access Dr. Kizza Besigye's phones, alleging they contain evidence
of treasonous activities aimed at overthrowing the government.
KAMPALA DEPUTY LORD MAYOR DOREEN NYANJURA, ACTIVISTS
GRANTED BAIL AFTER WEEKS IN DETENTION
Kampala Deputy Lord
Mayor Doreen Nyanjura, activist Ingrid Turinawe, and three others have been
granted bail after weeks in detention. They were arrested during a protest
demanding the release of opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye. Charged with
inciting violence and unlawful assembly, their lawyers argued they were
exercising their constitutional rights. While granted bail under strict
conditions, the activists vowed to continue advocating for political freedoms.
Their arrest drew criticism from opposition groups and human rights
organizations, accusing the government of suppressing dissent.
COURT GRANTS BAIL TO 22 NUP SUPPORTERS
A court has granted
bail to 22 National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters who were arrested during
protests earlier this month. The individuals were charged with inciting
violence and participating in illegal demonstrations but were released after
their legal teams argued insufficient evidence. The case has drawn attention,
with NUP officials and human rights groups claiming the arrests were
politically motivated.
Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/court-grants-bail-to-22-nup-supporters-4958136
KAWEMPE REIGNITES HISTORY OF POLL VIOLENCE
Concerns are emerging
that the violence during the Kawempe North Member of Parliament by-election
campaigns is a familiar pattern of pre-election violence involving paramilitary
groups.
Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kawempe-reignites-history-of-poll-violence-4959588
GOODBYE UMEME: UEDCL TAKES OVER
The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company
Limited (UEDCL) will officially take over the country's power distribution on
April 1, 2025, as Umeme’s 20-year concession ends on March 31, 2025. The
government aims to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure affordable
electricity tariffs. Most Umeme employees will be retained to ensure a smooth
transition. Authorities have assured consumers of uninterrupted power supply,
despite challenges like power theft and infrastructure expansion.
LACK OF GENDER DATA HINDERS EFFECTIVE POLICY
IMPLEMENTATION IN UGANDA
The absence of comprehensive
gender-disaggregated data in Uganda is hindering the development and
implementation of effective gender-responsive policies. This gap limits the
government's ability to promote equal opportunities for all citizens. State
Minister for Gender and Culture, Ms. Peace Mutuuzo, emphasized that accurate
data, analyzed through a gender lens, is essential for inclusive and effective
policymaking.
OPPOSITION CALLS FOR STRICT ENFORCEMENT OF
ANTI-CORRUPTION PLANS
Uganda’s opposition has welcomed the
government’s focus on fighting corruption in the 2025/26 budget but insists on
stricter enforcement. Led by Joel Ssenyonyi, opposition leaders argue that
without accountability, public funds will continue to be mismanaged. They call
for tougher prosecution of corrupt officials and more transparency in
government spending. Civil society groups also warn against misallocation of
funds and urge the government to cut unnecessary expenses. The opposition
stresses that real action, not just budget allocations, is needed to curb
corruption effectively.
UGANDA DEPLOYS SPECIAL FORCES TO SOUTH SUDAN
AMID RISING TENSIONS
Uganda has sent special forces to Juba, South
Sudan's capital, to support President Salva Kiir's government amid escalating
tensions with First Vice President Riek Machar. This deployment aims to prevent
a rebel advance on Juba and maintain regional stability.
COURT ORDERS REMOVAL OF COLONIAL MONUMENTS IN
KAMPALA
A Ugandan court has ruled that British
colonial-era monuments and street names in Kampala should be removed or renamed
to reflect Uganda's cultural heritage. This decision follows a five-year
campaign and is seen as a step toward addressing colonial injustices.
CONCERN OVER MALARIA CONTROL AMID U.S. AID CUTS
Health officials in Uganda express concern over
potential disruptions in malaria control efforts due to significant cuts in
U.S. foreign aid. The reduction threatens the supply of essential anti-malarial
medicines and mosquito control measures, which could lead to increased malaria
cases and deaths.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/usaid-cuts-africa-malaria-health-trump-22252b138d6eeaa143cc892731aec227
NEW EBOLA CLUSTER DETECTED IN UGANDA
A new Ebola cluster has been reported in
Uganda, with three confirmed and two probable cases across five districts. This
brings the total number of cases since January to 14, including two deaths.
Health authorities are intensifying efforts to monitor and trace contacts to
contain the outbreak.
REGIONAL UPDATE
KENYA HIV PATIENTS FACE MEDICATION SHORTAGES
AMID U.S AID FREEZE
In Kenya, a 90-day freeze on U.S. foreign aid
has led to a halt in the distribution of life-saving HIV medications. Millions
of essential doses are stranded in warehouses, causing significant concern
among the 1.4 million citizens living with HIV. Although the State Department
issued a waiver exempting HIV treatment funding, payment system disruptions
persist, leaving critical treatments in short supply.
DEADLY MILITANT ATTACK ON HOTEL IN SOMALIA
A car bomb exploded at the Cairo Hotel in
Beledweyne, Mogadishu, Somalia, resulting in at least six deaths, including two
prominent traditional elders. The hotel, frequented by government and military
personnel, was targeted in an attack likely linked to the militant group
al-Shabab.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/somalia-beledweyne-hotel-attack-c4f46b29ffd3aca20118aff21960625c
U.S AND DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO DISCUSS
MINERALS DEAL
The U.S. and the Democratic Republic of Congo
are negotiating a minerals-for-security agreement, granting Washington
exclusive access to the Congo's rich natural resources. In exchange, the U.S.
would provide direct security assistance, training, and military equipment to
Congo's armed forces, aiming to combat regional instability.
Source: https://www.thetimes.com/world/africa/article/us-drc-minerals-deal-congo-65d0vn82c?utm_source
INTERNATIONAL UPDATE
IMPACT INVESTORS SEEK ALTERNATIVES AMID U.S.
AID CUTS
In response to significant reductions in U.S.
foreign aid, impact investors are exploring alternative funding mechanisms.
These investors focus on social and environmental goals and are looking to
mitigate the effects of governmental aid cuts. Despite these efforts, some
gaps, particularly in immediate humanitarian needs, may be challenging to fill.
Source: https://www.ft.com/content/45530d17-3b80-41e2-b961-d8309e635b78?utm
WORLD BANK OUTLINES KEY STRATEGIES FOR UGANDA’S
ECONOMIC GROWTH
The World Bank has outlined key strategies to
boost Uganda’s economy, including investing in infrastructure, improving
education, modernizing agriculture, and strengthening governance. A $600
million fund from the World Bank and the French Development Agency will support
infrastructure and waste management in Kampala. Enhancing education quality,
increasing agricultural productivity, and tackling corruption are also crucial
for sustainable economic growth.
PRO-PALESTINIAN ACTIVIT’S DEPORTATION BLOCKED
A New York judge has halted the deportation of
Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian activist detained by ICE despite being a
permanent U.S. resident. This action follows President Donald Trump's executive
order targeting students involved in pro-Palestinian activities.
US-UKRAINE PEACE TALKS BEGIN AMIDST CONFLICT
ESCALATION
High-level discussions between U.S. and
Ukrainian officials commenced in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, aiming to explore
potential concessions to end the ongoing conflict with Russia. This initiative
is viewed with hope that President Donald Trump may resume military aid and
intelligence sharing. Concurrently, Ukraine launched its largest-ever drone
attack on Moscow, resulting in at least two fatalities and causing disruptions
at Moscow's airports.
TRUMP’S AGGRESSIVE POLICIES STRAIN US-CANADA
RELATIONS
Since his reelection, President Donald Trump
has adopted controversial policies towards Canada, including referring to it as
the "51st state" and suggesting annexation using "economic
force" for its minerals. These actions have caused significant strain in
the U.S.-Canada relationship, prompting opposition from Canadian officials.
FORMER PHILIPPINE PRESIDENT DUTERTE ARRESTED
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was
arrested upon returning to Manila from Hong Kong, following a warrant issued by
the International Criminal Court (ICC). He faces charges of crimes against
humanity related to his controversial anti-drug campaign, which allegedly led
to thousands of extrajudicial killings during his tenure.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/rodrigo-duterte-manila-philippines-icc-9b9d08b8832b43282db53418535fb245
THANKS FOR READING! WISHING YOU A GREAT WEEK!
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