HRCU WEEKLY UPDATE AND ANALYSIS | 6TH TO 12TH OCTOBER 2025
Dear Human Rights Defenders and Partners,
As
we begin a new week, the Human Rights Centre Uganda reaffirms its steadfast
commitment to justice, human dignity, and the protection of the rights of all people.
In
the face of both ongoing and emerging challenges, we urge all stakeholders to
remain actively engaged, united, and solution-focused. Meaningful collaboration
and open dialogue remain key to fostering sustainable, rights-based responses
that strengthen and empower our communities.
Below
is a snapshot of key human rights developments from the past week. We sincerely
appreciate your continued dedication and partnership as we work together towards
a just, inclusive, and rights-respecting society for all.
NATIONAL UPDATES
INDEPENDENCE AND HUMAN RIGHTS:
UGANDA’S UNFINISHED BUSINESS
As Uganda marks 63 years of Independence, legal
experts and rights advocates reflect on the nation’s unfinished journey toward freedom,
one where human rights remain the truest test of sovereignty.
Source:
UGANDANS HAVE NO RIGHT TO RECALL MPS -
CONSTITUTIONAL COURT
The Constitutional Court has ruled that Ugandans
have no constitutional right to recall Members of Parliament (MPs) under the
current multiparty political system, dismissing a petition that sought to
reinstate the right of recall for voters.
Source:
PRESIDENTIAL
CAMPAIGN PROGRAMME 2025-2026
The
Electoral
Commission of Uganda has released its official Presidential Campaign
Programme for the 2025-2026 general elections, detailing key
dates, candidate schedules, and campaign logistics.
Source:
https://www.ec.or.ug/presidential-campaign-programme-2025-2026
EC ISSUES TOUGH GUIDELINES FOR 2026
ELECTION OBSERVERS
The Electoral Commission(EC) has issued strict
guidelines that must be met by individuals and organisations seeking accreditation
to observe the 2026 General Election.
Source:
WE WERE KIDNAPPED, DETAINED ILLEGALLY
- BESIGYE TELLS COURT
Opposition stalwart Dr.Kizza Besigye yesterday
delivered an emotional address before the High Court in Kampala, detailing what
he describes as his illegal abduction and detention by state agents and questioning
the court’s impartiality in handling his treason case.
Source:
MUSEVENI REPLACES KAMYA WITH HIGH
COURT JUDGE AISHA NALUZZE AS IGG, DEPUTIES RETAINED
President Museveni has appointed High Court Judge
Aisha Naluzze Batala as Uganda’s new Inspector General of Government (IGG),replacing
Beti Olive Namisango Kamya,whose term expired last month.
Source:
https://www.newvision.co.ug/category/news/beti-kamya-dropped-as-high-court-judge-become-NV_220159
DARK TIMES AHEAD AS UEDCL ASKS FOR TWO
YEARS TO SORT POWER OUTAGES
The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited
has warned citizens that nationwide power outages will continue for atleast two
more years,blaming the aging infrastructure inherited from Umeme and outlining
a costly recovery plan that could take years to complete.
Source:
REGIONAL UPDATES
AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL SOUNDS ALARM OVER FORCED DISAPPEARENCES
IN TANZANIA
Amnesty International raised concern on Wednesday
over the disappearance of prominent government critic Humphrey Polepole,in
light of a pattern of suspicious disappearances throughout the state.
Source:
https://www.jurist.org/news/2025/10/rights-group-sounds-alarm-on-forced-disappearances-in-tanzania/
HEALTH CRISIS FUELS PROTESTS ACROSS
MOROCCO AS CITIZENS DEMAND ACCOUNTABILITY
From Rabat to
Casablanca, thousands have taken to the streets in recent weeks, denouncing
what they say is government neglect of public health services. Protesters
accuse the government of pouring billions into preparing to host international
football tournaments while hospitals remain overcrowded and under-equipped.
Source:
EBOLA OUTBREAK IN SOUTHERN CONGO SHOWS
SIGNS OF CONTAINMENT, SAYS WHO
An Ebola
outbreak that has plagued southern Congo in recent weeks is starting to be
contained, the World Health Organization said Wednesday, with no new
cases reported since the U.N. health agency's last update on Oct. 1, 2025.
Source:
INTERNATIONAL
UPDATES
GAZA AID
FLOTILLA SAYS ISRAELI FORCES INTERCEPTED ITS BOATS
A group of vessels attempting to
deliver aid to the war-ravaged Gaza Strip was intercepted by Israeli forces in
international waters on Wednesday.
Source:
WHO LAUNCHES
THE GLOBAL CLINICAL TRIALS FORUM
World Health Organisation
has today launched the Global Clinical Trials Forum (GCTF), a global,
multi-stakeholder network to strengthen clinical trial environments and
infrastructure at national, regional and global levels.
Source:
https://www.who.int/news/item/07-10-2025-who-launches-the-global-clinical-trials-forum
ISRAEL AND
HAMAS AGREE FIRST PHASE OF GAZA PEACE PLAN
Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a
peace plan, paving the way for a possible end to the conflict in Gaza.
Source:
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce80rmq3g5qo
THE ANALYSIS
- Uganda’s post-independence journey has seen both progress and setbacks in human rights protection. Despite constitutional guarantees, enforcement remains weak in civil liberties, political freedoms, and institutional accountability. The absence of proper separation of powers often leaves the executive unchecked. True independence requires more than sovereignty—it demands justice, transparency, and dignity.
- The Constitutional Court ruled that Ugandans cannot recall Members of Parliament, due to the absence of such provisions in the Constitution. This weakens democratic accountability and citizen participation. It contradicts international obligations under Article 25 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which promotes public involvement in governance. Legal reform is needed to align Uganda’s laws with democratic standards.
- The Electoral Commission’s new rules may limit independent election observation, raising concerns about transparency. Credible elections require neutral oversight to build public trust. These restrictions may violate the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Electoral integrity must not be undermined by over-regulation.
- Dr. Kizza Besigye's claims of abduction and illegal detention point to serious rights abuses. These acts violate Article 23 of Uganda’s Constitution and Article 9 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Courts have emphasized the importance of liberty and due process. Such incidents show continued state repression of dissent.
- Appointing a judge as Inspector General of Government could enhance legal credibility in fighting corruption. However, executive involvement raises concerns about the independence of the office. Article 128 of the Constitution protects judicial independence from political influence. Transparent, merit-based appointments are essential for accountability.
- Ongoing power outages continue to disrupt essential services, hinder economic activities, and negatively impact daily life. This situation undermines the right to development and an adequate standard of living as recognized under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) is urged to take immediate measures to ensure a stable and reliable power supply across the country.
- Amnesty International’s report highlights disappearances in Tanzania as serious rights violations. Enforced disappearance is banned under the United Nations Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. Lack of accountability encourages fear and impunity. Tanzania must uphold its human rights obligations and investigate all cases transparently.
- A failing health system in Morocco has triggered protests demanding reform. Access to healthcare is a basic right under Article 12 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Citizens demand transparency, fairness, and improved services. The government must address these systemic problems urgently.
- The World Health Organization’s efforts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo show progress in controlling the Ebola outbreak. Effective health responses and international cooperation are crucial. The right to health includes epidemic protection. Continued vigilance is vital to prevent resurgence.
- Intercepting aid flotillas to Gaza raises humanitarian and legal concerns under international maritime and humanitarian law. Such actions may violate the right to aid and freedom of navigation. The blockade has long restricted access to basic needs. International oversight is essential to uphold legal and humanitarian norms.
- The World Health Organization’s new forum aims to improve global clinical research coordination. It promotes ethical standards, data sharing, and equal access to medical innovations. This supports the right to health and scientific progress under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Global cooperation is vital for inclusive medical advancement.
- A preliminary peace deal between Israel and Hamas is a step toward ending the Gaza conflict. Ceasefires allow for humanitarian aid and further talks. The Geneva Conventions require civilian protection in war. Both sides must uphold peace and human rights in good faith.
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