UHRC Chairperson Summoned by COSASE Over Audit Report and Leadership Lapses

The Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) has issued a directive for the Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), Mariam Wangadya, to appear before the committee on Friday, July 24, 2026. Her absence from a scheduled meeting to review the commission’s Auditor General’s report has raised significant concerns among committee members regarding the leadership and governance of the UHRC.

During a session chaired by Hon. Muwada Nkunyingi, UHRC officials acknowledged that the commission had not convened a formal meeting since March 2026, despite legal requirements for oversight. This lack of meetings has led to questions about the institution’s accountability and functionality.

Kamadi Byonabye, the acting Secretary and Accounting Officer, informed the committee that he had personally notified Chairperson Wangadya of the meeting, who reportedly cited the technical nature of the Auditor General’s report as a reason for her potential absence. Hon. Nkunyingi warned that Parliament would resort to legal measures, including summons or warrants, if Wangadya fails to appear, emphasizing the seriousness of the issues at hand.

Further revelations indicated that the commission’s tribunal system is effectively stalled, as only the chairperson can preside over tribunal proceedings. This means that pending human rights complaints requiring tribunal hearings cannot be addressed. The delay in hearing these complaints has also been attributed to budget constraints, with tribunal sessions last held in December 2025.

Concerns were also raised about the commission’s ability to execute its constitutional mandate and submit reports to Parliament without regular formal meetings of its governing body. The perceived dysfunctionality of the UHRC has led to questions about its effectiveness in protecting human rights in Uganda.

It was noted that Mariam Wangadya submitted a resignation notice on July 6, 2026, but her resignation is not yet effective as it awaits formal acceptance by the appointing authority. Therefore, she remains the substantive Chairperson.

https://www.howwe.ug/news/national/43358/uhrc-chairperson-directed-to-appear-before-committee