Amnesty International Demands Probe Into Uganda Election Violence and Alleged Rights Abuses
Kampala, Uganda — Amnesty International has called for immediate investigations into widespread human rights violations allegedly committed by Ugandan security forces during and after the country’s contentious January elections.
The rights group documented at least 16 unlawful killings, hundreds of arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, and cases of torture—accusing authorities of failing to hold anyone accountable three months later.
Deadly Crackdown on Election Day
Between January 15 and 18, Uganda’s military and police reportedly used excessive force, leading to the deaths of unarmed civilians in multiple districts, including Kampala, Luweero, and Mityana. Witnesses told Amnesty that victims posed no immediate threat before being shot.
One of the most brutal incidents occurred in Butambala, where soldiers allegedly raided the home of opposition MP Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi on election night, killing at least seven people. Police claimed the group had tried to attack a nearby station, but survivors disputed the account, saying they were unarmed.
In another case, 33-year-old Victoria Ndagire was fatally shot in Lubaga while returning home from voting. Despite initial claims that her death was unrelated to gunfire, a postmortem report confirmed she died from bullet wounds.
Mass Arrests and Enforced Disappearances
Amnesty’s investigation, based on interviews with 48 witnesses and victims, revealed a pattern of politically motivated arrests—particularly targeting supporters of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP).
Many were detained without warrants, often by plain-clothed officers, and questioned about their ties to NUP leader Bobi Wine. Some were held incommunicado for weeks, with authorities denying their whereabouts—raising fears of enforced disappearances.
Senior NUP officials, including Jolly Jacklyn Tukamushaba and Lina Zedriga, were reportedly arrested and held in undisclosed locations before being charged without legal representation.
Torture and Inhumane Detention Conditions
Former detainees described severe beatings with sticks, wires, and batons, leaving some with lasting injuries. Medical reports reviewed by Amnesty supported these claims.
Video evidence showed uniformed and plain-clothed men assaulting unarmed detainees—acts that may constitute torture under international law. Prisoners also reported overcrowding, lack of food, and denial of medical care.
Calls for Accountability
Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, condemned the lack of action.
“Three months since security forces unleashed brutality on civilians, not a single officer has faced consequences,” he said. “Uganda must conduct impartial investigations, suspend accused personnel, and release those detained solely for exercising their rights.”
The Ugandan government has yet to respond to Amnesty’s findings. Under international law, authorities are obligated to prevent abuses, ensure justice for victims, and hold perpetrators accountable.
— Reported by Nexio News
