Incidents of torture have surfaced on many occasions in Uganda, a country said to be a democracy.
This tarnished image of human rights abuses conflicts with the ideals of liberty and justice that the nation strives to uphold.
Despite a comprehensive anti-torture legislative framework, including the Prevention and Prohibition of Torture Act of 2012, the reality on the ground reveals a disturbing trend. Acts of torture persist in various forms, often with impunity.
However, reports from organisations like the African Centre for Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture Victims (ACTV) have highlighted a situation where individuals, often at the hands of state security agencies, suffer brutal treatment that undermines their dignity and rights.
According to ACTV’s 2023 report, a staggering 1,235 survivors of torture were registered, with the first half of 2024 witnessing a continuous rise in cases.
Men constitute the majority of those reporting incidents, yet the voices of women and vulnerable groups are also increasingly coming to light, challenging the narrative that torture is solely a male issue.
The alarming statistics reveal that the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) leads the allegations with 353 cases, followed by the Uganda Police Force with 175, and private individuals accounting for 160 incidents.
As these figures emerge, it becomes clear that the struggle against torture is not merely a legal concern; it is a societal issue that demands urgent action, advocacy, and legislative reform to protect the rights of all citizens.
However, Herbert Nsubuga, the Executive Director of the African Centre for Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture Victims (ACTV), has urged the Ugandan Parliament to prioritise the enactment of the Witness Protection Bill 2015 and the National Legal Aid Bill.
These legislative measures are crucial for strengthening the fight against torture, especially in light of Uganda’s commitments under the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT) of 2006.
Despite the existence of a comprehensive anti-torture legislative framework in Uganda, Nsubuga highlights the alarming reality that torture continues to persist across the country.
This indicates that while state actors remain the primary violators, there is an emerging concern regarding the role of civilians in perpetrating torture.
Increased Citizen Activism
Nsubuga acknowledges a rise in citizen activism surrounding the reporting of torture cases, particularly those perpetrated by private individuals.
This increased vigilance reflects a growing awareness and willingness among the public to speak out against such abuses, a crucial step in fostering accountability and protecting victims’ rights.
Call for Effective Documentation
To further enhance the fight against torture, Nsubuga has called on the Uganda Police Force to better utilise the Prevention and Prohibition of Torture Regulations 2017 forms.
This coding is essential for effective investigation, documentation, and prosecution of torture cases.
Improved protocols would facilitate more thorough investigations, thereby strengthening the legal framework against torture and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.
Gaps
Alex Kigoye, ACTV’s head of programs, stressed the need for improved investigation and documentation of torture and ill-treatment cases.
Gaps in these areas can hinder the pursuit of justice for survivors and allow violations to persist unchecked.
Addressing these gaps is vital for fostering a culture of accountability and ensuring that victims receive the support and protection they deserve.
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