KAMPALA — Opposition political parties under the Joint Democratic Platform (JDP) have petitioned the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), accusing state security agencies of violating citizens’ rights and calling for stronger action to safeguard constitutional freedoms.
The opposition coalition presented a position paper to the Commission during a meeting held at JLOS Towers in Naguru on Monday, highlighting concerns over alleged enforced disappearances, illegal arrests, torture, restrictions on political activities and discrimination against individuals based on their political affiliation.
The meeting was attended by representatives from the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), National Unity Platform (NUP), Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Justice Forum (JEEMA), People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), among other opposition groups.
Counsel Moses Tugume, the Legal Secretary of PFF, said Uganda’s Constitution guarantees fundamental human rights and political freedoms, urging the UHRC to remind security agencies of their obligation to respect and protect citizens’ rights.
“We believe the Uganda Human Rights Commission has a critical role in ensuring that all institutions respect the rights guaranteed under the Constitution,” Tugume said.
The opposition leaders asked the Commission to investigate allegations of abductions involving armed individuals using unmarked vehicles, prolonged detention beyond the constitutional 48-hour limit, torture of suspects and the trial of civilians in military courts.
They also proposed the creation of a permanent engagement framework between the UHRC and political parties to enhance accountability and provide a platform for addressing human rights concerns.
JEEMA President Asuman Basalirwa questioned why security agencies allegedly rely on arrests and abductions instead of using established legal procedures such as police summons and court processes.
Basalirwa also urged the judiciary to ensure that suspects who appear in court with visible signs of torture are not remanded before receiving medical attention.
“Where a suspect appears before court with injuries, the priority should be treatment and investigation into the circumstances that caused those injuries,” he said.
PPP Chairman Sadam Gayira challenged political parties to reflect on their own internal practices, arguing that commitment to human rights should begin within political organisations before extending to the wider society.
NUP Deputy President Jacqueline Tukamushaba Jolly shared her personal experience, alleging that she was detained by the military, while claiming that several opposition supporters remain missing.
She cited the case of former Kawempe South Member of Parliament Mubarak Munyagwa Kivumbi, whose whereabouts she said remain unknown.
Counsel Namuyaba Safina Ssebagala, Deputy President of ANT in Buganda, raised concerns over what she described as the growing involvement of the military in civilian matters.
She called for clearer constitutional interpretation regarding the powers and responsibilities of the Chief of Defence Forces.
Responding to the petition, UHRC Chairperson Mariam Fauzat Wangadya acknowledged receipt of the document and described the opposition coalition as an important stakeholder in Uganda’s democracy.
Wangadya said the Commission would study the issues raised and provide feedback, while committing to continued engagement with political parties and other stakeholders.
The petition comes amid renewed debate over political freedoms, security operations and the protection of human rights as Uganda prepares for the 2026 general elections.
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