UHRC Commissioners Urge IGG to Uncover Truth Amidst Leadership Crisis

For approximately five months, the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has reportedly been unable to convene formal sittings, a situation one commissioner, Simeo Nsubuga, describes as a serious threat to its constitutional mandate. The UHRC serves as Uganda’s primary watchdog for human rights, tasked with addressing issues like torture, unlawful detention, and abuse by public officials. When its leadership is mired in crisis, the commission’s ability to function and address public grievances is severely compromised.

Commissioner Nsubuga, along with two other commissioners, Steven Basaliza Alaali and Jacklet Atuhaire Rwabukurukuru, have reiterated their commitment to a petition they submitted earlier this year. This petition, directed at President Yoweri Museveni and the Inspector General of Government (IGG), outlines accusations of corruption, fraud, and abuse of office within the UHRC. Nsubuga emphasized that their claims are based on internal information and they are seeking a thorough investigation to establish the facts, stating, “We are simply asking investigators to establish the truth. If there is nothing wrong, that should come out. If there is wrongdoing, the law should take its course.”

The dispute has also drawn the attention of Parliament, with several committees expressing interest. While acknowledging parliamentary scrutiny, the petitioning commissioners stress the critical need for anti-corruption agencies, particularly the IGG, to complete their independent investigations. The integrity of the UHRC is paramount, as it is the institution responsible for holding others accountable for human rights violations. The prolonged leadership crisis raises serious questions about who will safeguard the commission’s own integrity.

Recent public exchanges, including remarks attributed to UHRC chairperson Mariam Wangadya, have further complicated the situation. Nsubuga has criticized statements he deems inappropriate for the head of a human rights institution, particularly those referencing personal matters of commissioners. While Wangadya has since apologized for her language before a parliamentary committee, Nsubuga believes a more public apology is warranted. The situation remains uncertain, with the final decision on the leadership dispute resting with President Museveni.