Matembe: Museveni Govt Has 'Silently Overthrown' Constitution

Former Ethics and Integrity Minister Miria Matembe has strongly criticized the current government, accusing it of “silently” overthrowing Uganda’s Constitution. Speaking publicly for the first time since her arrest and detention in June, Matembe stated that the administration under President Museveni has systematically eroded constitutional gains through severe human rights violations, abuse of power, and the alleged manipulation of judicial institutions.

Matembe, who was involved in the drafting of the 1995 Constitution, shared her personal experience of being arrested, charged with sectarianism, and remanded. She described her arrest, which she likened to being taken in a lead car to Luzira Prison, as a deeply unsettling experience that solidified her belief in the ongoing subversion of the constitutional order.

“The Constitution has been silently overthrown by President Museveni’s government through gross human rights violations and abuse of power,” Matembe declared, questioning the safety of Ugandans given the rise in political arrests and suppression of dissenting voices. She cited the continued detention of prominent opposition figures like Dr. Kizza Besigye and various National Unity Platform (NUP) activists as clear evidence of governmental excess.

Furthermore, Matembe expressed concern over the diminishing independence of the Judiciary, alleging it has been transformed into an instrument of oppression. She pointed to her own bail ruling, which was met with celebration, as indicative of how rare fair judicial decisions have become. The subsequent transfer of the magistrate who granted her bail, she noted, further underscored her concerns about judicial autonomy.

Drawing from her direct involvement in the constitution-making process, Matembe emphasized that the document was intended to safeguard citizens from the very abuses she claims are now prevalent. She vowed not to remain silent in the face of what she perceives as constitutional abuse and a gross violation of human rights, stating her arrest has only strengthened her resolve.

Matembe also called for a national dialogue among political parties to address the pressing issues of political arrests, human rights abuses, and escalating political tensions. She urged for national unity and collective defense of constitutionalism and human rights, reminding Ugandans that silence in the face of injustice is not an option.

These statements come amid a period of significant political unrest in Uganda, with many opposition members and activists facing arrest and prolonged detention. Matembe’s transition from a former minister to a vocal critic highlights the deepening concerns about the state of governance and human rights in the country.

Source: Nile Post