HRCU WEEKLY ANALYSIS | 17TH - 23RD MARCH 2025
THE WEEK OF 17TH TO 23RD MARCH
2025
________________________________________________________
Dear Human Rights Defender and Partner,
Greetings from The Human Rights Centre Uganda.
We hope that you are well.
HRCU shares with you some of information relating to human rights and key emerging issues including those directly affecting human rights defenders (HRDs) in Uganda.
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.
WEEK’S ANALYSIS
1. What could be the implication of President Museveni's
probe into the Kawempe North by-election? Could it be personal interest or it
is the desire to find and dig-up the truth behind what is yet to be discovered?
The question is: If the Electoral Commission did its part and declared Counsel
Elias Nalukoola as the duly elected candidate for Kwempe-North constituency,
can we then say that the Electoral Commission through its returning agent, made
a grave mistake? This is what we await to track and get to the conclusion of
the matter.
2. The government’s commitment to addressing
attacks on journalists during the Kawempe by-election could lead to tangible
actions to protect press freedom and democratic values. This includes ensuring
the safety of journalists, holding perpetrators accountable, and fostering an
environment where free expression is protected. Without decisive action, both
press freedom and public trust in democracy will be at risk.
3. The arrest warrant for ULS President Isaac
Ssemakadde highlights the tension between legal accountability and freedom of
expression. There is need to strengthen the legal system in Uganda to address
any existing gaps but also to ensure that public trust is built within the
judiciary. Counsel Semakadde’s failure to appear in the Court as summoned could
have personal reasons and backing but it could indicate that if systemic
challenges are dealt with, more people could find reason to appear and have
their cases heard in the national courts.
4. Postponement of the Karuma Bridge
closure might highlight ongoing logistical and planning challenges. The
responsible line ministries could do better by improving planning,
communication, and coordination to minimize disruptions and ensure future
projects are managed more efficiently.
5. Justice Flavian Zeija's call for the
appointment of new judges to ensure timely delivery of justice emphasizes the
urgent need for efficiency within the judiciary. Delays in legal proceedings
hinder the proper functioning of the justice system and attainment of rule of
law. While increasing the number of judges may help reduce case backlogs, it is
essential that the judiciary maintains impartiality and fairness in its
decisions. Swift and fair rulings will not only strengthen public confidence
but also reinforce the credibility of legal institutions.
6. Judicial transfers, if properly planned and
executed with transparency, can improve efficiency and fairness in the justice
system by addressing backlogs and promoting accountability. However, without a
strategic approach, they may disrupt case continuity and harm public trust.
Effective management is essential to ensure the process strengthens service
delivery and enhances public confidence in the judiciary.
7. Pathy Mbabazi's bail highlights tensions over
political expression in Uganda. Ensuring fair legal processes and upholding
free speech are essential for maintaining democratic integrity and preventing
public mistrust in the justice system.
8. Recognizing domestic violence as an issue is
essential for justice and protection of the family as an institution. Strong
laws, awareness, and community action are key to effectively addressing and
preventing abuse. A coordinated approach is necessary to ensure lasting change.
9. The Red Cross’s aid efforts are vital in
supporting victims and building community resilience. To maximize effectiveness,
these efforts should be paired with sustainable strategies, local
collaboration, and targeted assistance to those most in need.
10.Sweden’s call for fair elections highlights the
importance of transparency in Uganda’s electoral process. Ensuring transparency
is key to building public trust, political stability, and a legitimate
democratic system.
11.Urgent action on waste management is vital to
protect Uganda’s environment, health, and climate resilience. Effective
policies, infrastructure, and public involvement are essential to prevent
environmental degradation and health risks, ensuring a sustainable future for
the nation.
_____________________________________________________________
Some of the key highlights from last week included:
NATIONAL UPDATE
MPS CONCERNED ABOUT DELAY IN NALUKOOLA SWEARING
IN
Concerns have been raised in Parliament over
the delay by the Electoral Commission to gazette Member of Parliament elect,
Elias Nalukoola. Nalukoola of the National Unity Platform (NUP) won the Kawempe
North by-election, thereby preventing his swearing-in as a Member of
Parliament.
The concerns were raised during the plenary
sitting chaired by Speaker Anita Among on Thursday, 20 March 2025. Kira
Municipality Member of Parliament, Hon. Ssemujju Nganda drew comparisons with
the Igara East by-election where he stated that Hon. Michael Mawanda was sworn
in 24 hours after the declaration of his victory.
“May we know when Nalukoola, the Kawempe
by-election winner will be sworn in?” Ssemujju asked.
Speaker Among clarified that Parliament cannot
administer the oath of a new MP before the Electoral Commission does the
gazettment.
“I am waiting for the gazette and I need to hear from the Electoral
Commission,” she said.
Source: Parliament of Uganda
https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/3643/mps-concerned-about-delay-nalukoola-swearing
PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ORDERS CRIMINAL AND ELECTORAL
PROBE INTO KAWEMPE NORTH BY-ELECTION
President Museveni has ordered an investigation
into alleged election fraud in the Kawempe North by-election. The NRM rejected
the results, while the opposition blamed security forces for irregularities.
The probe aims to uphold electoral integrity.
Source:
GOVERNMENT REGRETS ATTACKS ON JOURNALISTS IN
KAWEMPE BY-ELECTION, VOWS ACTION
The government has expressed regret over the
brutal attacks on journalists by security operatives, assuring that
investigations are underway to hold those responsible accountable. Authorities
reaffirmed their commitment to press freedom, while media rights groups urged
concrete actions to protect journalists.
Source:
https://nilepost.co.ug/top-stories/247770/govt-regrets-attacks-on-journalists-in-kawempe-by-election
COURT ISSUES INTERNATIONAL WARRANT FOR ARREST
OF ULS PRESIDENT ISAAC SSEMAKADDE
Court issued an international arrest warrant
for ULS President Isaac Ssemakadde over alleged
insults against DPP Jane Frances Abodo. Interpol was authorized to enforce the
warrant after he failed to appear in court. Ssemakadde, calling the charges
political, has petitioned the High Court to cancel the warrant, sparking debate
on freedom of expression in Uganda.
Source:
KARUMA BRIDGE CLOSURE DEFERRED ONCE AGAIN
The
Ugandan Ministry of Works and Transport has postponed the closure of Karuma
Bridge, originally set for March 17, 2025, to allow for repairs on the Masindi
Port Ferry. On that note an alternative route is highly advised for use.The
bridge has been undergoing phased repairs due to structural fatigue and was
partially reopened in December 2024. Authorities assure the public that a new
closure date will be announced and urge motorists to stay updated on travel
advisories.
Source:
https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/karuma-bridge-s-closure-deferred-again--4969220?utm
JUSTICE FLAVIAN ZEIJA URGES NEW JUDGES TO
DELIVER TIMELY JUSTICE
Justice
Flavian Zeija advised newly appointed judges to prioritize timely case
resolution to reduce backlogs and restore public trust in the judiciary. He
emphasized efficiency, fairness, and modern judicial practices to improve
justice delivery. The judiciary is implementing reforms to enhance efficiency.
Source:
JUDICIAL TRANSFERS ANNOUNCED TO STRENGTHEN
ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE
The
judiciary has implemented transfers of judicial officers to enhance efficiency
and service delivery across various stations. According to an official
statement, the reassignments aim to balance workloads and improve the
administration of justice. The judiciary reassured the public that all
transfers follow due process, ensuring continued fairness and effectiveness in
the legal system.
Source:
GOVERNMENT CONSIDERS APPEAL AGAINST JUSTICE
MUGAMBE'S UK CONVICTION
The
Ugandan government is considering appealing Justice Lydia Mugambe’s UK
conviction for modern slavery and immigration offenses. She was found guilty of
exploiting a Ugandan woman as an unpaid domestic worker. The government
provided legal counsel and is actively involved. Investigations linked her to a
Ugandan diplomat, who was not charged due to immunity. Mugambe faces sentencing
on May 2nd ,2025 while some claim she was falsely accused for
immigration benefits.
Source:
NUP’S PATHY MBABAZI GRANTED BAIL AFTER HATE
SPEECH CHARGES AGAINST MUSEVENI AND MUHOOZI
NUP’s Pathy Mbabazi was arrested on March 3,
2025, for alleged hate speech against President Museveni and Gen Muhoozi. She
was granted bail on March 19 with a cash bond of Shs100,000, and her next
hearing is on April 16. NUP leaders criticized the case as suppression of free
speech.
Source:
TAKING A FIRM STAND: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IS A
PUBLIC ISSUE, NOT A PRIVATE MATTER
Domestic violence is a serious public issue
that requires collective action. It affects individuals, families, and
communities, with victims often suffering in silence. Addressing it demands
stronger laws, better enforcement, and public awareness. Society must support
survivors, hold abusers accountable, and ensure safe spaces. Taking a firm
stand against domestic violence is essential to breaking the cycle and driving
meaningful change.
Source:
https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/editorial/domestic-violence-has-no-place-in-society-4969478
RED CROSS SENDS SECOND BATCH OF RELIEF SUPPLIES
TO AID VICTIMS
The Red Cross has dispatched a second shipment
of relief supplies, including food, water, medical aid, and shelter materials,
to support disaster victims. Officials stress their commitment to delivering
urgent assistance, while local authorities welcome the aid. More consignments
are expected as relief efforts continue.
Source:
SWEDEN URGES UGANDA TO ENSURE FREE AND FAIR
ELECTIONS AHEAD OF 2026 POLLS
Sweden has urged Uganda to ensure free and fair
elections ahead of the 2026 general elections, emphasizing that democratic
integrity is crucial for attracting foreign investment.
Source:
UGANDA’S WASTE: A CLIMATE TIME BOMB TICKING
LOUDLY
Uganda's waste crisis is worsening, posing
environmental and health risks. Poor disposal methods contribute to pollution
and climate change by releasing harmful gases. Experts advocate for a
zero-waste economy through recycling, composting, and sustainable waste
management solutions. Proposed measures include biogas plants, organic waste
processing, and public awareness campaigns. Addressing this issue is critical
for climate resilience and sustainable development.
Source:
__________________________________________________________________________________
REGIONAL UPDATES
DRC TO JOIN PEACE TALKS WITH M23 REBELS
The Democratic Republic of Congo has announced
it will send a delegation to Angola for peace talks with the Rwanda-backed M23
rebels. This decision comes amid significant human impact from the conflict,
including thousands of deaths and hundreds of thousands displaced since
November. Angolan President Joao Lourenco has called for a ceasefire to
facilitate productive dialogue, though clashes continue in regions like Walikale.
Source:
SOUTH SUDAN AIRSTRIKE KILLS 21 IN NASIR
A South Sudanese air force bombing in Nasir has
resulted in 21 fatalities. The attack underscores the ongoing instability in
the region.
Source:
FUNDING CUTS THREATEN HUMANITARIAN AID IN EAST
AFRICA
Significant funding cuts by the US and UK are
severely impacting global food aid, leading to increased malnutrition and
starvation in vulnerable regions such as Somalia, Bangladesh, and Kenya. The
reductions have led to protests and a rising number of deaths due to hunger and
malnutrition.
Source:
EU SANCTIONS RWANDAN OFFICIALS, M23 LEADERS
OVER DRC CONFLICT
The EU has sanctioned Rwandan military
officials and M23 rebel leaders over their role in the eastern DRC conflict.
The sanctions include asset freezes and travel bans. Rwanda, accused of
supporting M23 rebels, denies the allegations and has expelled Belgian
diplomats in response. The move aims to curb violence and promote peace in the
region.
Source:
______________________________________________________________
INTERNATIONAL UPDATE
TRUMP DIRECTIVE PLACES ALL FULL-TIME VOICE OF
AMERICA EMPLOYEES ON LEAVE
U.S.
President Donald Trump issued an executive order placing all full-time Voice of
America (VOA) employees on leave, effectively shutting down operations. The
move is part of defunding U.S.-funded media, which critics say weakens press
freedom and benefits authoritarian regimes.
Source:
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-signs-order-to-cut-staff-at-voice-of-america-media/
SWEDEN PROVIDES SHS7.3 BILLION TO BOOST
UGANDA’S EBOLA FIGHT
Sweden has provided Shs7.3 billion to support
Uganda’s Ebola response. The funds will enhance surveillance, treatment, and
prevention efforts in high-risk areas. Ugandan health officials welcomed the
support, stating it will strengthen early detection and equip medical
facilities. Sweden’s contribution aligns with its commitment to global health.
Authorities continue to urge the public to follow preventive measures.
Source:
JUDGE BLOCKS USAID SHUTDOWN, CITING
CONSTITUTIONAL VIOLATIONS
A U.S. judge blocked the Trump administration
and Elon Musk’s agency from shutting down USAID, ruling the move
unconstitutional. The lawsuit argues Musk exceeded his role, as such decisions
require Senate approval. The ruling restores USAID operations, though the
administration plans to appeal.
Source:
ISRAEL RESUMES AIRSTRIKES ON GAZA, ENDING CEASEFIRE
AND KILLING HUNDRED
Israel launched major airstrikes across Gaza,
killing at least 330 people and potentially ending a two-month ceasefire with
Hamas. Prime Minister Netanyahu signaled plans for further military action
after failed negotiations in Doha. The escalation raises concerns over hostages
and the possibility of prolonged conflict.
Source:
_________________________________________________________________
THANK YOU FOR READING! WISHING
YOU A GREAT WEEK!
Comments
Post a Comment