By Julius Mugaga Tukacungurwa Umoja Standard.
KAMPALA: Monday the Uganda Human Rights Commission and leaders of opposition political parties have agreed to institutionalize quarterly engagements to address the state of human rights and freedoms in the country.
This morning at the UHRC headquarters on JLOS Towers in Naguru, Commission Chairperson Hon. Mariam Wangadya hosted the Joint Democratic Platform, a coalition of opposition parties, who presented a position paper on current human rights concerns and recommendations for strengthening protection and promotion.
Dr. Lulume Bayiga, Deputy President of the People’s Front for Freedom, led a delegation of more than 20 senior opposition figures. Among them were UPC President Hon. Jimmy Akena, JEEMA President Hon. Asuman Basalirwa, PPP President Mr. Saddam Gayira, FDC Deputy President Hon. Ibrahim Kasozi, NUP Deputy President for Western Uganda Ms. Jolly Jackline Tukamushaba, Alliance for National Transformation Deputy President for Buganda Region Ms. Namuyaba Safina Sebaggala, PFF Council of Eminent Persons member Hon. Wafula Oguttu, and PFF Attorney General Mr. Moses Tugume, who read the position paper.
The leaders outlined challenges affecting civil liberties, political participation, and social rights. Hon. Akena expressed concern about stunted growth among Ugandan children and urged the Commission to ensure every citizen’s right to participate fully in democratic processes is protected. Hon. Basalirwa reminded the meeting that under Article 53 of the Constitution, the Commission has wide powers, including the ability to summon any person, to execute its mandate.
Receiving the document, Chairperson Wangadya welcomed the initiative and commended the opposition for constructive engagement. She assured the delegation that the Commission will examine each issue raised, adopt relevant recommendations, and consult stakeholders in human rights protection and the Justice Law and Order Sector before providing formal feedback.
“We value this partnership. The Commission will look into every issue you have raised and take the necessary steps,” Wangadya said. She added that going forward, similar meetings will be held every three months to track progress and maintain open communication.
The opposition leaders appreciated the audience and pledged support to the Commission’s efforts to promote and protect rights and freedoms nationwide.
During the same meeting, the delegation also sought clarification on allegations made by former Internal Affairs Minister Gen. Kahinda Otafire that a section of security personnel was involved in extra-judicial killings of Ugandans. In response, Wangadya said the Commission had written to the former minister and received a reply. She noted that the matter is being processed in line with the Commission’s procedures and that findings will be shared once investigations are complete.
The engagement signals renewed commitment by both the UHRC and opposition parties to dialogue as Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections. The Commission reiterated its constitutional mandate to investigate complaints, monitor government compliance with human rights obligations, and recommend remedial action where violations are found.
