United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has condemned the escalating crackdown on opposition groups and the media in Uganda ahead of next month’s general election.
Türk urged Ugandan authorities to uphold human rights before, during, and after the vote, warning of a “disturbing pattern of repression.”
“It is deeply regrettable that election campaigns have once again been marked by widespread arbitrary arrests, detentions, and the use of unnecessary or disproportionate force against the opposition, as well as undue restrictions on press freedom,” he said.
“I urge Ugandan authorities to cease these repressive tactics and allow Ugandans to fully and peacefully exercise their right to participate in public affairs on election day and thereafter.”
According to reports, at least 550 people including members and supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP)—have been arrested and detained since the start of the year, with more than 300 arrests occurring since campaigning began in September.
Those detained face charges ranging from public nuisance and disobedience of lawful orders to assault, obstruction, and incitement of violence. Many remain in custody.
Heavily armed security forces have been deployed at locations where NUP rallies are scheduled. Last week, live ammunition was reportedly used in the eastern town of Iganga, resulting in at least one death and three injuries.
Security operatives have also used tear gas, whips, batons, water cannons, and chemical irritants to disperse opposition supporters, injuring many.
Türk noted a growing pattern of arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, torture, and other forms of ill treatment. Security forces have reportedly used unmarked “drone” vans to transport detainees to unofficial “safe houses,” where they are held incommunicado violating international law, which requires detention only in officially acknowledged facilities.
Two Kenyan activists detained after attending an opposition rally in October were also held incommunicado for over a month before being returned to Kenya. Dozens of other opposition supporters remain detained from elections more than four years ago.
Türk called on Ugandan authorities to investigate all allegations of arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, and ill treatment; to hold perpetrators accountable; and to provide reparations to victims. He stressed that all individuals arbitrarily deprived of liberty should be released.
He also condemned continuing restrictions on press freedom. In October, journalists from NTV Uganda and The Daily Monitor had their parliamentary accreditation withdrawn, apparently due to critical reporting. In March, at least 32 journalists and media workers were assaulted or had equipment confiscated during a by-election in Kawempe North.
“The Ugandan authorities must halt all violence against the media and the opposition and act fully in accordance with their obligations under international human rights law,” Türk said.
