Kampala, 22nd/June/2011; Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda) welcomes the government’s initiative to hold a national validation meeting ahead of its review in October 2011.
The Universal Periodic Review Mechanism established in 2006 by the United Nations General Assembly, is a new and unique human rights mechanism of the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council aiming at improving the human rights situations on the ground of each of the 192 member states.
Uganda’s review comes at a time when a number of instruments have been ratified since 1980 namely; the charter of the United Nations, International Conventions on Elimination of Discrimination, Convention Against Torture, Convention on Economic Social and Cultural rights, Convention on the Rights of Children, Convention on Migrants Workers, Convention on People with Disabilities, Convention on Children in Armed Conflict, Convention against Chemical Weapons, The Ottawa Treaty on Anti Personnel Mines and the Rome Statute that establishing the International Criminal Court among others at regional and continent levels.
The validation meeting held on 20th/June/2011 at the Foreign Affairs Ministry headquarters in Kampala was attended by political parties, Religious groups, private sector and Civil Society organization.
Although representatives did not get access to the draft state report, the meeting discussed human rights issues and concerns in the country. The issues that came up included; freedom of expression, corruption, violations committed during the ‘Walk to Work” campaign, the right to education, right to health, torture, landlessness and unlawful evictions and LGBTI among others.
The national validation meeting came after consultative meetings in different parts of the country namely; Mbale in Eastern Uganda, Gulu in the Northern and Mbarara in Western Uganda.
The consultations followed the formation of a 25 member inter-ministerial committee in March this year chaired by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to the chairman of the consultative process on UPR, Ambassador David Etuket, a draft report would be ready by the close of business this week and submitted to the cabinet for approval.
“We expect to come up with the draft report at the end of the meeting, forward it to cabinet and be discussed on 29th/June/2011 before submitting it to the United Human Rights Council by 4th/July/2011.” said Ambassador Etuket.
He added that, “the process is expected to generate a genuine and credible report that may be used to defend the country or inform the world about the progress in the realm of human rights and even highlight challenges for which we need support from the international community.”
Uganda is faced with a challenge of failing to report to treaty bodies as required by conventions, lack of political will to support the reporting process due to negative perception and failure to commit resources to facilitate such processes.
“We commend the government for the processes undertaken to produce a state report and we would like government to have the same spirit after the adoption of recommendations come March 2012. One of the concerns is however the composition of the UPR committee which is government based. However, we would like to see in future other players brought on board like CSOs, political parties and Private sector among others if we are to improve human rights situation in Uganda” said Programmes Coordinator HRNJ-Uganda Geoffrey Wokulira Ssebaggala
He appealed to the government to make the state report available to all Ugandans before the review.
Three UN member states (members of the Troika) have already been named to review Uganda come October 12th. The countries include; Uruguay, Nigeria and Maldives.
For More Information Contact;
Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda)
Kivebulaya Road – Mengo Kampala Opp. St. Marcelino Pre. School
P.O.BOX. 71314 Clock Tower Kampala
Tel: +256-414-272934 / +256-414-667627
E-mail: news@hrnjuganda.org
humanrajournalists@yahoo.co.uk
Website: www.hrnjuganda.org
BLOG: http://hrnjuganda.blogpost.com
HUMAN RIGHTS NETWORK FOR JOURNALISTS UGANDA (HRNJ-Uganda)
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Television journalist assaulted by police, detained
Entebbe, 22nd/June/2011; Bukedde television correspondent from Entebbe Kigongo Ssebalamu has been assaulted for covering a village meeting that police was addressing without securing its clearance.
Bukedde television is part of the vision group a company with which government owns majority shares.
He was arrested on 20th/June/2011 at 5:30pm at a village meeting to which he had been invited by residents of Kitara, Katabi Sub County Wakiso district to offer coverage. The meeting was intended to resolve matters concerning witch craft where one resident corpol Male Namukangula was being accused of being at the center of the problem.
Eye witness Kato Suleiman told Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda) that Ssebalamu was roughed up and clobbered by a group of police men using batons and gun handles after refusing to stop filming the event.
Kato said, the Officer in Charge of Kisubi police post Ahmed Madiri grabbed Ssebalamu by the collar and slapped him as other police men kicked him.
HRNJ-Uganda has learnt that the arrest and assault of Ssebalamu started after he produced an expired employment identity card and police deemed him unfit to cover the proceedings of the village meeting.
“I was beaten by a group of policemen headed by O/C Kisubi Ahmed Madiri using batons and they badly injured the knee of my right leg. I also sustained injuries and bruises on my shoulder, below the knee on my right leg and the back” Narrated Ssebalamu
He said he was bundled on a police patrol vehicle, had his camera was confiscated and later detained at Kisubi police post for about an hour until his bosses intervened.
Ssebalamu was later charged with incitement of violence and released on police bond.
On receiving information about the incident, HRNJ-Uganda contacted Entebbe District Police Commander Muzafaru Zirabamuzale who said journalists don’t conduct themselves in a decent manner. But he also said, he sent an officer to the ground to ascertain the true details of what exactly transpired.
“We have asked Mr. Ssebalamu to open up an assault case at Entebbe police station; get three (3) police forms and go to a medical doctor for diagnosis. It’s a case worth investigating by the police and holding responsible the culprits. Failure will tantamount to HRNJ picking up the issue and most likely we shall take the matter to court.” said Programmes Coordinator Geoffrey Wokulira Ssebaggala
HRNJ-Uganda appeals to the government of Uganda to admit a visit request sent by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression to assess the country’s situation since the brutality meted against journalists and other citizens is increasing.
Ssebalamu was charged with inciting violence and released on police bond.
For More Information Contact;
Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda)
Kivebulaya Road – Mengo Kampala Opp. St. Marcelino Pre. School
P.O.BOX. 71314 Clock Tower Kampala
Tel: +256-414-272934 / +256-414-667627
E-mail: news@hrnjuganda.org
humanrajournalists@yahoo.co.uk
Website: www.hrnjuganda.org
BLOG: http://hrnjuganda.blogpost.com
Bukedde television is part of the vision group a company with which government owns majority shares.
He was arrested on 20th/June/2011 at 5:30pm at a village meeting to which he had been invited by residents of Kitara, Katabi Sub County Wakiso district to offer coverage. The meeting was intended to resolve matters concerning witch craft where one resident corpol Male Namukangula was being accused of being at the center of the problem.
Eye witness Kato Suleiman told Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda) that Ssebalamu was roughed up and clobbered by a group of police men using batons and gun handles after refusing to stop filming the event.
Kato said, the Officer in Charge of Kisubi police post Ahmed Madiri grabbed Ssebalamu by the collar and slapped him as other police men kicked him.
HRNJ-Uganda has learnt that the arrest and assault of Ssebalamu started after he produced an expired employment identity card and police deemed him unfit to cover the proceedings of the village meeting.
“I was beaten by a group of policemen headed by O/C Kisubi Ahmed Madiri using batons and they badly injured the knee of my right leg. I also sustained injuries and bruises on my shoulder, below the knee on my right leg and the back” Narrated Ssebalamu
He said he was bundled on a police patrol vehicle, had his camera was confiscated and later detained at Kisubi police post for about an hour until his bosses intervened.
Ssebalamu was later charged with incitement of violence and released on police bond.
On receiving information about the incident, HRNJ-Uganda contacted Entebbe District Police Commander Muzafaru Zirabamuzale who said journalists don’t conduct themselves in a decent manner. But he also said, he sent an officer to the ground to ascertain the true details of what exactly transpired.
“We have asked Mr. Ssebalamu to open up an assault case at Entebbe police station; get three (3) police forms and go to a medical doctor for diagnosis. It’s a case worth investigating by the police and holding responsible the culprits. Failure will tantamount to HRNJ picking up the issue and most likely we shall take the matter to court.” said Programmes Coordinator Geoffrey Wokulira Ssebaggala
HRNJ-Uganda appeals to the government of Uganda to admit a visit request sent by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression to assess the country’s situation since the brutality meted against journalists and other citizens is increasing.
Ssebalamu was charged with inciting violence and released on police bond.
For More Information Contact;
Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda)
Kivebulaya Road – Mengo Kampala Opp. St. Marcelino Pre. School
P.O.BOX. 71314 Clock Tower Kampala
Tel: +256-414-272934 / +256-414-667627
E-mail: news@hrnjuganda.org
humanrajournalists@yahoo.co.uk
Website: www.hrnjuganda.org
BLOG: http://hrnjuganda.blogpost.com
Another veteran journalist dies in a period of seven days
Death has again robbed the media fraternity of another veteran Ugandan journalist. James Henry Okanya was among the 30 passengers who died in a fatal road accident when two buses Bakulu Bus and Baby Coach crashed head on collision in Southern Sudan, a few kilometers from Nimule Uganda - Sudan border.
James Okanya, during his active time worked at the government owned The Uganda Argus (Idi Amin regime) in late 1970s and the Uganda Times (Apollo Milton Obote II) from 1980 – 85, was an investigative journalist. He again teamed up with fellow journalists when the paper was changed from Uganda Times to the New Vision. He briefly worked for the paper in the early days of National Resistance Movement (NRM) 1987 before leaving for leaving for active politics.
The death of James Okanya brings the number of veteran journalists who have passed on in a period of seven days to two after another veteran journalist David Musoke who died and was laid to rest in Matale, Lugazi June 11, 2011.
James's contribution towards the journalism profession in Uganda will always shine and never forgotten since two of his children Adante Okanya trained and active in the profession (New Vision) and a daughter at campus doing Mass-Comm.
James Okanya's body was laid to rest on Monday the 20th June 2011, at Kabwangasi in Palisa district.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
James Okanya, during his active time worked at the government owned The Uganda Argus (Idi Amin regime) in late 1970s and the Uganda Times (Apollo Milton Obote II) from 1980 – 85, was an investigative journalist. He again teamed up with fellow journalists when the paper was changed from Uganda Times to the New Vision. He briefly worked for the paper in the early days of National Resistance Movement (NRM) 1987 before leaving for leaving for active politics.
The death of James Okanya brings the number of veteran journalists who have passed on in a period of seven days to two after another veteran journalist David Musoke who died and was laid to rest in Matale, Lugazi June 11, 2011.
James's contribution towards the journalism profession in Uganda will always shine and never forgotten since two of his children Adante Okanya trained and active in the profession (New Vision) and a daughter at campus doing Mass-Comm.
James Okanya's body was laid to rest on Monday the 20th June 2011, at Kabwangasi in Palisa district.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Repression of Uganda media takes new turn
By Alice Drito, Commonwealth Journalists Association executive member
Democracy without freedom of expression and media is characteristic of many failed or failing states in Africa. Low priority given to media freedom disconnects the media from good governance and development. Yet in developed nations a vibrant and widely-read press encourages citizens to take part in government and to express their views about things that affect them. Fragile states need to promote a free press for their own good. But, in practice, the media are held under siege.
In Uganda, journalists have become targets of state security operatives. The BBC, the Daily Monitor and other media are being branded as enemies of Uganda. One rights body puts the number of journalists harassed or intimidated by security agents at 55 over six months. Forty-three face charges including sedition and criminal libel.
Ten journalists were reportedly beaten when covering the May 12 return of opposition leader Kizza Besigye from Kenya [where he had gone for treatment of injuries he received when a demonstration was violently dispersed in Kampala last month.]. On May 18 journalists were beaten by security agents at a wetland. It had been encroached by 500 Uganda Peoples Defense Force veterans, who claimed President Museveni authorised them to occupy it.
Handling journalists with an iron fist is a strange way to attempt to tame the media in a civilised society. It differs from methods previously used. These were characterised by switching on and off of air waves, raiding media establishments, arresting journalists and manoeuvring those branded as critical of the state out of their jobs.
Most party manifestos for presidential and parliamentary elections have been silent on media freedom even though it is well provided for in the constitution. However, the ruling National Resistance Movement, in its manifesto Prosperity for All sounded media-friendly. Under the heading Democracy and Good Governance, it assured Ugandans about the freedom of the media. It will be unfortunate if this was intended to hoodwink people.
In reality, media freedom has suffered a setback, as described above, since the Movement government began its fourth term of office.
Critics of the media argue that the press and radio are part of their own problems. They argue that at election times, when citizens are putting issues to the government, the media are silent on these issues, which is a lost opportunity.
Ms. Alice Drito, is a Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA) executive member. Her article was first published in the CJA June report
Democracy without freedom of expression and media is characteristic of many failed or failing states in Africa. Low priority given to media freedom disconnects the media from good governance and development. Yet in developed nations a vibrant and widely-read press encourages citizens to take part in government and to express their views about things that affect them. Fragile states need to promote a free press for their own good. But, in practice, the media are held under siege.
In Uganda, journalists have become targets of state security operatives. The BBC, the Daily Monitor and other media are being branded as enemies of Uganda. One rights body puts the number of journalists harassed or intimidated by security agents at 55 over six months. Forty-three face charges including sedition and criminal libel.
Ten journalists were reportedly beaten when covering the May 12 return of opposition leader Kizza Besigye from Kenya [where he had gone for treatment of injuries he received when a demonstration was violently dispersed in Kampala last month.]. On May 18 journalists were beaten by security agents at a wetland. It had been encroached by 500 Uganda Peoples Defense Force veterans, who claimed President Museveni authorised them to occupy it.
Handling journalists with an iron fist is a strange way to attempt to tame the media in a civilised society. It differs from methods previously used. These were characterised by switching on and off of air waves, raiding media establishments, arresting journalists and manoeuvring those branded as critical of the state out of their jobs.
Most party manifestos for presidential and parliamentary elections have been silent on media freedom even though it is well provided for in the constitution. However, the ruling National Resistance Movement, in its manifesto Prosperity for All sounded media-friendly. Under the heading Democracy and Good Governance, it assured Ugandans about the freedom of the media. It will be unfortunate if this was intended to hoodwink people.
In reality, media freedom has suffered a setback, as described above, since the Movement government began its fourth term of office.
Critics of the media argue that the press and radio are part of their own problems. They argue that at election times, when citizens are putting issues to the government, the media are silent on these issues, which is a lost opportunity.
Ms. Alice Drito, is a Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA) executive member. Her article was first published in the CJA June report
Friday, June 17, 2011
105 Ugandan and international organisations have written to President
Uganda: Civil Society Seeks Independent Inquiry Into April Killings Broad Coalition Presses President for Invitation to UN Special Rapporteur (Kampala, June 15, 2011) – Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni should ensure independent and transparent investigations into killings which occurred during the “Walk to Work” protests and hold security forces accountable, a coalition of 105 human rights, media, and development organizations said in a letter to the president today. The coalition, including civil society groups from every corner of Uganda, urged the president to invite the United Nations Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions. During the April 2011 protests over the rising costs of commodities and the arrest of opposition leaders, police and military responded to protesters with live ammunition in Kampala, Gulu, Mbale, and Masaka, leaving at least nine unarmed people dead. The known circumstances of the deaths to date indicate that the use of lethal force was unnecessary and unjustified. The government has arrested hundreds of protesters and put significant resources into investigating alleged acts of looting, arson, and destruction of property, but little effort has gone into investigating killings by security forces, the groups said. Some government officials have contended that those killed were violent protesters. One victim‟s family was told at the morgue that they were not permitted to retrieve the body because “all these people died while attempting to overthrow the government.” “Blaming the victims is a weak ploy to distract attention from the actions of the security forces,”
said Arthur Larok of the Uganda National NGO Forum. “The government needs to determine what really happened and to make sure that those responsible are held responsible.” One police officer has been arrested in the shooting of 2-year-old Julian Nalwanga by police in Masaka. In a May 17 opinion article by Museveni in several Ugandan newspapers, he referred to the shooting as a “criminal killing.” The government has said the police officer will face trial before military courts, despite a 2009 ruling by the Constitutional Court barring prosecution of civilians before military jurisdictions. No one else has been arrested in connection with the other deaths of unarmed civilians. Impunity for serious crimes by members of the security forces, especially during political demonstrations, persists in Uganda, the coalition, which includes 95 Ugandan organizations, said. Ugandan law guarantees the right to free assembly, speech, and association, but in practice the government has often responded to the exercise of these rights with firearms and lethal force. In September 2009, at least 40 people were killed by security forces during two days of protests in Kampala after the authorities sought to restrict the movement of Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, the cultural leader of the Buganda ethnic group. Human Rights Watch documented numerous instances in which unarmed protesters and bystanders died after police and military police used live ammunition to scare people off the streets or shot into people's homes. Despite numerous
commitments by government ministers and Uganda's parliament to investigate those events, no one has been held accountable for those killings, and the police and soldiers responsible have never been punished. “We have seen the government promise investigations before, but in the end, nothing happens and perpetrators remain in active service,” said Maria Burnett, senior Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch. “The president should show that things will be different this time and listen to civil society by ensuring an independent investigation with international expertise.” The groups also called upon Uganda, as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council, to cooperate fully with the UN Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions, and the Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression and invite these international experts to Uganda. In 1986 Museveni‟s government extended an invitation and was host to the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions. Uganda should issue standing invitations to all special rapporteurs and UN working groups to visit Uganda, the groups said. This engagement with the UN would facilitate the necessary investigations and help ensure present and future accountability. “An invitation to the Special Rapporteurs would demonstrate that Uganda is committed to rule of law and understands the importance of accountability,” said Mohammed Ndifuna, chief executive officer at HURINET-Uganda. “It is time for the government to stop ignoring killings during demonstrations.” To read the letter to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni: http://www.hrw.org/node/99863 For more Human Rights Watch reporting on Uganda, please visit: http://www.hrw.org/en/africa/uganda For more information, please contact: In Kampala, for Uganda National NGO Forum, Arthur Larok (English, Acholi): +256-782-385- 818 In Kampala, for Human Rights Network, Patrick Tumwine (English): +256-772-315-896; or http://www.hurinet.or.ug/
In Kampala, for Foundation for Human Rights Initiative, Sheila Muwanga (English): +256-773-486-911 In Kampala, for Human Rights Watch, Maria Burnett (English, French): +256-775-561348 (mobile); or maria.burnett@hrw.org Ugandan NGO, Union, and Individual Sign Ons:
1. Human Rights Network (HURINET-U), Kampala
2. National NGO Forum, Kampala
3. Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI), Kampala
4. MAYANK Anti-Corruption Coalition, Moyo, Adjumani, Yumbe, Arua, Nebbi and Koboko
5. Human Rights Focus (HURIFO), Gulu
6. Uganda Youth Network, Kampala
7. African Network for the Prevention and Protection against Child Abuse and Neglect (ANPPCAN), Kampala
8. Stella Mukasa, Kampala
9. Pallisa Civil Society Organizations' Network (PACONET), Pallisa
10. East and Horn of Africa Human Rights Defenders Project, Kampala
11. Livelihoods Improvement Programme (LIPRO) Uganda
12. Rushenyi Youths Peace for Nature, Ntungamo
13. Advocates for Public International Law in Uganda (APILU), Kampala
14. Community Development Resource Network (CDRN), Kampala
15. Western Ankole Civil Society Forum (WACSOF), Ankole
16. Coalition of Ppivate Schools Teachers Association (COUPSTA), Kampala
17. Recreation and Development Programme (RDP), Masindi
18. Uganda Governance Monitoring Platform, Kampala
19. Peter Wandera, Development Network of Indigenous Voluntary Assocations ( DENIVA), Kampala
20. Ahmed Wetaka, Mbale
21. Aggrey Mugisha, Chairman, Uganda National Civic Education Consortium (UNACO), Kampala
22. Katushabe Edrine, Kabale
23. Mugamba Ronald Kakembo, Human Rights Centre Uganda, Kampala
24. Flavia Zalwango, Human Rights Awareness and Promotion Forum Uganda (HRAPF), Nakulabye, Kampala
25. Angel Valeria, Member, Citizen Coalition for Electoral Democracy in Uganda (CCEDU), Kampala
26. Sydey Etima-Ojara, Programme Officer, Democratic Accountability, Democratic Governance and Accountability Programme (DGAP), Kampala
27. Human Rights Target (HRT), Luwero
28. Youth Revival Association (YRA), Kampala
29. Kasubi Community Development Association (KAKODA), Wakiso
30. Kalangala Human Rights Defenders (KHRD), Kalangala
31. Bukoggolwa Widows and Orphans Care Centre (BWOCC), Mpigi
32. Pastoral Women Alliance to Break Cultural Chains (PWABC), Kiboga
33. Action for Human Rights and Civic Awareness (AHURICA), Kayunga
34. Lira Women Peace Initiative (LIWEPI), Lira
35. Human Rights and Paralegal Services (HUPAS), Busia
36. Rashid Bunya, Member, Citizen Coalition for Electoral Democracy in Uganda (CCEDU ), Kibuli, Kampala
37. The Uganda Parliamentary Press Association, Kampala
38. The Human Rights Network for Journalists, Kampala
39. Northern Uganda Journalist Press Association, Gulu
40. Eastern Uganda Journalists Press Association, Busia
41. Kabale Journalists Press Association, Kabale
42. Action for Human Rights and Civic Awareness, Kayunga, Mukono
43. Rwenzori Peace Bridge for Reconciliation, Kasese
44. Gomba Paralegals Association, Gomba, Butambala
45. National Human Rights Association of Uganda, Mbale
46. Crispy Kaheru, National Coordinator, Citizen Coalition for Electoral Democracy in Uganda (CCEDU), Kampala
47. Janet Tuhirwe, Bushenyi
48. Jenga Afrika, Kampala
49. International Anti Corruption Theatre Movement (IATM), Kampala
50. Nakaweesi Solome Kimbugwe- Independent Consultant and Feminist Activist, Kampala
51. Hope after Rape, Kampala
52. Platform for Labor Action, Kampala
53. Rehabilitation Centre for Victims of Domestic and Sexual Violence (RECESVID), Kampala
54. Enid Wamani, Kampala
55. Uganda Health & Science Press Association (UHSPA), Kampala
56. Western Ankole Civil Society Forum - WACSOF (Bushenyi, Sheema, Buhweju, Rubirizi and Mitooma Districts)
57. Twerwaneho Listeners Club, Fort Portal
58. Human Rights Network for Journalists, Kampala
59. Global Rights Alert, Kampala
60. Soroti Development Association & NGOs Network (SODANN), Soroti
61. Support Initiative for People with atypical sex Development (SIPD), Kampala
62. Justice and Reconciliation Project, Gulu
63. Mathias Mangeni, Coordinator, Human Rights Paralegal Advisory Services, Kampala
64. Public Affairs Centre of Uganda (PAC Uganda), Soroti
65. „Kapchorwa Civil Society Organizations‟ Alliance (KACSOA), Kapchorwa
66. Coalition of Private Schools Teachers‟ Association (COUPSTA), Kampala
67. Community Development and Welfare Initiatives (CODI), Luwero
68. Facilitation for Peace and Development, Lira
69. Mid-Western Uganda Region Anti Corruption Coalition (MIRAC), Bunyoro
70. Tororo Civil Society Organizations Network (TOCINET), Tororo
71. Bugiri District NGO Forum, Bugiri
72. Africa Leadership Institute (AFLI), Kampala
73. Kisoro NGO Forum, Kisoro
74. Gulu NGO Forum, Gulu
75. Masindi District NGO Forum, Masindi
76. Bugisu Civil Society Network, Bugisu
77. Iganga District NGO Forum, Iganga
78. The Apac Anti corruption Coalition, Apac
79. Apac NGO Link Forum, Apac
80. Rwenzori Anti Corruption Coalition, Rwenzori
81. Kamwenge District Development Organization, Kamwenge
82. Kabarole Research and Resource Center, Kabarole
83. Action for Development (ACFODE), Kampala
84. Uganda National Farmers‟ Federation, Kampala
85. Uganda National Teachers‟ Union, Kampala
86. National Debate Council, Kampala
87. Dora K. Musinguzi, Executive Director, Uganda Network on Law, Ethics and HIV/AIDS (UGANET), Kampala
88. Refugee Law Project, Kampala
89. Eastern Africa Media Institute, Kampala
90. Uganda Muslims Youth Assembly (UMYA), Kampala
91. Uganda Media Development Foundation (UMDF), Kampala
92. Platform for Citizens Participation and Accountability, Kampala
93. Busoga Media Network, Jinja
94. Rwenzori Press Club, Kasese
95. Kitara Union of Media Practitioners, Hoima
International Sign Ons:
96. Human Rights Watch (HRW), Kampala and New York, USA
97. Tchérina Jerolon, International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), Paris, France
98. ENOUGH Project, Washington, DC, USA
99. East African School of Human Rights, Nairobi, Kenya
100. Human Rights First, New York, USA
101. RESOLVE, Washington, DC, USA
102. Foreign Policy In Focus, Washington, DC, USA
103. Africa Action, Washington, DC, USA
104. Africa Faith and Justice Network, Washington, DC, USA
105. Health GAP, Global Access Project, New York, USA
said Arthur Larok of the Uganda National NGO Forum. “The government needs to determine what really happened and to make sure that those responsible are held responsible.” One police officer has been arrested in the shooting of 2-year-old Julian Nalwanga by police in Masaka. In a May 17 opinion article by Museveni in several Ugandan newspapers, he referred to the shooting as a “criminal killing.” The government has said the police officer will face trial before military courts, despite a 2009 ruling by the Constitutional Court barring prosecution of civilians before military jurisdictions. No one else has been arrested in connection with the other deaths of unarmed civilians. Impunity for serious crimes by members of the security forces, especially during political demonstrations, persists in Uganda, the coalition, which includes 95 Ugandan organizations, said. Ugandan law guarantees the right to free assembly, speech, and association, but in practice the government has often responded to the exercise of these rights with firearms and lethal force. In September 2009, at least 40 people were killed by security forces during two days of protests in Kampala after the authorities sought to restrict the movement of Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, the cultural leader of the Buganda ethnic group. Human Rights Watch documented numerous instances in which unarmed protesters and bystanders died after police and military police used live ammunition to scare people off the streets or shot into people's homes. Despite numerous
commitments by government ministers and Uganda's parliament to investigate those events, no one has been held accountable for those killings, and the police and soldiers responsible have never been punished. “We have seen the government promise investigations before, but in the end, nothing happens and perpetrators remain in active service,” said Maria Burnett, senior Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch. “The president should show that things will be different this time and listen to civil society by ensuring an independent investigation with international expertise.” The groups also called upon Uganda, as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council, to cooperate fully with the UN Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions, and the Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression and invite these international experts to Uganda. In 1986 Museveni‟s government extended an invitation and was host to the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions. Uganda should issue standing invitations to all special rapporteurs and UN working groups to visit Uganda, the groups said. This engagement with the UN would facilitate the necessary investigations and help ensure present and future accountability. “An invitation to the Special Rapporteurs would demonstrate that Uganda is committed to rule of law and understands the importance of accountability,” said Mohammed Ndifuna, chief executive officer at HURINET-Uganda. “It is time for the government to stop ignoring killings during demonstrations.” To read the letter to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni: http://www.hrw.org/node/99863 For more Human Rights Watch reporting on Uganda, please visit: http://www.hrw.org/en/africa/uganda For more information, please contact: In Kampala, for Uganda National NGO Forum, Arthur Larok (English, Acholi): +256-782-385- 818 In Kampala, for Human Rights Network, Patrick Tumwine (English): +256-772-315-896; or http://www.hurinet.or.ug/
In Kampala, for Foundation for Human Rights Initiative, Sheila Muwanga (English): +256-773-486-911 In Kampala, for Human Rights Watch, Maria Burnett (English, French): +256-775-561348 (mobile); or maria.burnett@hrw.org Ugandan NGO, Union, and Individual Sign Ons:
1. Human Rights Network (HURINET-U), Kampala
2. National NGO Forum, Kampala
3. Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI), Kampala
4. MAYANK Anti-Corruption Coalition, Moyo, Adjumani, Yumbe, Arua, Nebbi and Koboko
5. Human Rights Focus (HURIFO), Gulu
6. Uganda Youth Network, Kampala
7. African Network for the Prevention and Protection against Child Abuse and Neglect (ANPPCAN), Kampala
8. Stella Mukasa, Kampala
9. Pallisa Civil Society Organizations' Network (PACONET), Pallisa
10. East and Horn of Africa Human Rights Defenders Project, Kampala
11. Livelihoods Improvement Programme (LIPRO) Uganda
12. Rushenyi Youths Peace for Nature, Ntungamo
13. Advocates for Public International Law in Uganda (APILU), Kampala
14. Community Development Resource Network (CDRN), Kampala
15. Western Ankole Civil Society Forum (WACSOF), Ankole
16. Coalition of Ppivate Schools Teachers Association (COUPSTA), Kampala
17. Recreation and Development Programme (RDP), Masindi
18. Uganda Governance Monitoring Platform, Kampala
19. Peter Wandera, Development Network of Indigenous Voluntary Assocations ( DENIVA), Kampala
20. Ahmed Wetaka, Mbale
21. Aggrey Mugisha, Chairman, Uganda National Civic Education Consortium (UNACO), Kampala
22. Katushabe Edrine, Kabale
23. Mugamba Ronald Kakembo, Human Rights Centre Uganda, Kampala
24. Flavia Zalwango, Human Rights Awareness and Promotion Forum Uganda (HRAPF), Nakulabye, Kampala
25. Angel Valeria, Member, Citizen Coalition for Electoral Democracy in Uganda (CCEDU), Kampala
26. Sydey Etima-Ojara, Programme Officer, Democratic Accountability, Democratic Governance and Accountability Programme (DGAP), Kampala
27. Human Rights Target (HRT), Luwero
28. Youth Revival Association (YRA), Kampala
29. Kasubi Community Development Association (KAKODA), Wakiso
30. Kalangala Human Rights Defenders (KHRD), Kalangala
31. Bukoggolwa Widows and Orphans Care Centre (BWOCC), Mpigi
32. Pastoral Women Alliance to Break Cultural Chains (PWABC), Kiboga
33. Action for Human Rights and Civic Awareness (AHURICA), Kayunga
34. Lira Women Peace Initiative (LIWEPI), Lira
35. Human Rights and Paralegal Services (HUPAS), Busia
36. Rashid Bunya, Member, Citizen Coalition for Electoral Democracy in Uganda (CCEDU ), Kibuli, Kampala
37. The Uganda Parliamentary Press Association, Kampala
38. The Human Rights Network for Journalists, Kampala
39. Northern Uganda Journalist Press Association, Gulu
40. Eastern Uganda Journalists Press Association, Busia
41. Kabale Journalists Press Association, Kabale
42. Action for Human Rights and Civic Awareness, Kayunga, Mukono
43. Rwenzori Peace Bridge for Reconciliation, Kasese
44. Gomba Paralegals Association, Gomba, Butambala
45. National Human Rights Association of Uganda, Mbale
46. Crispy Kaheru, National Coordinator, Citizen Coalition for Electoral Democracy in Uganda (CCEDU), Kampala
47. Janet Tuhirwe, Bushenyi
48. Jenga Afrika, Kampala
49. International Anti Corruption Theatre Movement (IATM), Kampala
50. Nakaweesi Solome Kimbugwe- Independent Consultant and Feminist Activist, Kampala
51. Hope after Rape, Kampala
52. Platform for Labor Action, Kampala
53. Rehabilitation Centre for Victims of Domestic and Sexual Violence (RECESVID), Kampala
54. Enid Wamani, Kampala
55. Uganda Health & Science Press Association (UHSPA), Kampala
56. Western Ankole Civil Society Forum - WACSOF (Bushenyi, Sheema, Buhweju, Rubirizi and Mitooma Districts)
57. Twerwaneho Listeners Club, Fort Portal
58. Human Rights Network for Journalists, Kampala
59. Global Rights Alert, Kampala
60. Soroti Development Association & NGOs Network (SODANN), Soroti
61. Support Initiative for People with atypical sex Development (SIPD), Kampala
62. Justice and Reconciliation Project, Gulu
63. Mathias Mangeni, Coordinator, Human Rights Paralegal Advisory Services, Kampala
64. Public Affairs Centre of Uganda (PAC Uganda), Soroti
65. „Kapchorwa Civil Society Organizations‟ Alliance (KACSOA), Kapchorwa
66. Coalition of Private Schools Teachers‟ Association (COUPSTA), Kampala
67. Community Development and Welfare Initiatives (CODI), Luwero
68. Facilitation for Peace and Development, Lira
69. Mid-Western Uganda Region Anti Corruption Coalition (MIRAC), Bunyoro
70. Tororo Civil Society Organizations Network (TOCINET), Tororo
71. Bugiri District NGO Forum, Bugiri
72. Africa Leadership Institute (AFLI), Kampala
73. Kisoro NGO Forum, Kisoro
74. Gulu NGO Forum, Gulu
75. Masindi District NGO Forum, Masindi
76. Bugisu Civil Society Network, Bugisu
77. Iganga District NGO Forum, Iganga
78. The Apac Anti corruption Coalition, Apac
79. Apac NGO Link Forum, Apac
80. Rwenzori Anti Corruption Coalition, Rwenzori
81. Kamwenge District Development Organization, Kamwenge
82. Kabarole Research and Resource Center, Kabarole
83. Action for Development (ACFODE), Kampala
84. Uganda National Farmers‟ Federation, Kampala
85. Uganda National Teachers‟ Union, Kampala
86. National Debate Council, Kampala
87. Dora K. Musinguzi, Executive Director, Uganda Network on Law, Ethics and HIV/AIDS (UGANET), Kampala
88. Refugee Law Project, Kampala
89. Eastern Africa Media Institute, Kampala
90. Uganda Muslims Youth Assembly (UMYA), Kampala
91. Uganda Media Development Foundation (UMDF), Kampala
92. Platform for Citizens Participation and Accountability, Kampala
93. Busoga Media Network, Jinja
94. Rwenzori Press Club, Kasese
95. Kitara Union of Media Practitioners, Hoima
International Sign Ons:
96. Human Rights Watch (HRW), Kampala and New York, USA
97. Tchérina Jerolon, International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), Paris, France
98. ENOUGH Project, Washington, DC, USA
99. East African School of Human Rights, Nairobi, Kenya
100. Human Rights First, New York, USA
101. RESOLVE, Washington, DC, USA
102. Foreign Policy In Focus, Washington, DC, USA
103. Africa Action, Washington, DC, USA
104. Africa Faith and Justice Network, Washington, DC, USA
105. Health GAP, Global Access Project, New York, USA
Monday, June 13, 2011
HRNJ-Uganda alert: A web page on journalists’ rulings and judgments is introduced
Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda(HRNJ-Uganda) introduces a web page for rulings and judgments on cases of journalists in Uganda on its website: you can explore more through this link http://www.hrnjuganda.org/index.html
Among the judgments include, the decision of the constitutional court on the sedition.
For More Information Contact;
Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda)
Kivebulaya Road Mengo Kampala Opp. St. Marcelino Pre. School
P.O.BOX. 71314 Clock Tower Kampala
Tel: +256-414-272934 / +256-414-667627
E-mail: news@hrnjuganda.org
humanrajournalists@yahoo.co.uk
Website: www.hrnjuganda.org
BLOG: http://hrnjuganda.blogpost.com
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
HRNJ-Uganda alert: Radio talk show hosts questioned over hosting opposition leader
Kampala, 7th/June/2011; The Special Investigation Unit (SIU) has questioned two radio talk show hosts for hosting the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) president Dr. Kiiza Besigye.
Charles Mwanguhya Mpagi who hosts KFM’s ‘Hot seat’ and co-host Bernard Tabaire were interrogated at the Naguru based Special Investigation Unit for more than one and a half hours. They were flanked by the Daily Monitor lawyer James Nangwala and Company secretary Ms. Anne Abeja.
SIU is a newly established department in Uganda Police Force (UPF) whose mandate is not statutory based and powers not known.
The duo was first summoned by SIU on 23rd/May/2011 to reportedly help police in its investigations into the activities of a new pressure group ‘Activists for Change’.
Activists for Change (A4C) is a loose coalition for human rights activists and politicians formed to draw government’s attention to the current sky-rocketing fuel and commodity prices.
Since April 2011 when A4C started its activities, more than ten unarmed Ugandans have been shot and killed and hundreds injured. Journalists suffered the wrath of the military and police during the Walk to Work protests and previous ones. Dozens were physically attacked, shot, intimidated, equipment confiscated by security operatives and their recordings erased. Some media offices and printing press were also raided.
A letter signed by SIU Commandant Grace Akullu outlined that police had opened a General Inquiry File Number 52/2011 and requested that the K fm duo be interviewed and compelled to record statements.
Human Rights Network for journalists-Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda) has learnt that the duo provided the recordings to the police and was questioned by two detectives namely; Felix Tulihamwe and Balaam Bwengye.
“We were interrogated separately and ordered to record statements. The detectives pushed questions which were intended to force us reveal what transpired outside the studio but we insisted and referred them to the recordings of the talk show” said Mwanguhya
He said such police actions will not deter them from performing their watch dog function.
The number of journalists who have appeared before the SIU is now three. Prior to this Daily Monitor journalist Tabu Butagira was also questioned over an interview he conducted with Dr. Kiiza Besigye which was later published by the paper.
“The media work is being endangered by police actions since it’s used as a source of information to incriminate some members of the public. I fear that such actions will trigger attacks against the media from the public” said HRNJ-Uganda Programmes Coordinator Geoffrey Wokulira Ssebaggala.
HRNJ-Uganda demands that police should desist from compelling media practitioners in its investigations and witnesses.
For More Information Contact;
Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda)
Kivebulaya Road – Mengo Kampala Opp. St. Marcelino Pre. School
P.O.BOX. 71314 Clock Tower Kampala
Tel: +256-414-272934 / +256-414-667627
E-mail: news@hrnjuganda.org
Website: www.hrnjuganda.org
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
HRNJ-Uganda Joins freedom of Expression
Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda is voted a full member of the International Freedom of Expression.
Where there is freedom of Expression, there must be freedom after expression
Let us join hands in promoting Human Rights for a better living.
Where there is freedom of Expression, there must be freedom after expression
Let us join hands in promoting Human Rights for a better living.
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Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Journalist released on bail after 20 hours in prison
Kampala, 1st/June/2011; Timothy Kalyegira, the Managing Editor of one of Uganda Online Magazines ‘ the Uganda Record’ who was remanded to Luzira prison on charges of criminal libel has been released on court bail.
A Grade II Magistrate at Kampala City Hall Court, James Wambeya yesterday remanded Kalyegira after reading to him charges of defaming the person of the president of Uganda Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in articles published in the Uganda Record.
Prosecution alleges that between the 12th and 15th of July 2010 in Kampala, with intent to defame the president, Kalyegira published that government was behind the plantation of the bombs that went off on July/11th killing more than 80 Ugandans at the Ethiopian village in Kabalagala and Rugby Club in Lugogo.
Section 179 of the Penal Code Act of 1950 states “Any person who, by print, writing, painting, effigy or by any means otherwise than solely by gestures, spoken words or other sounds, unlawfully publishes any defamatory matter concerning another person, with intent to defame that other person, commits the misdemeanour termed libel”.
The law is being challenged by a group of journalists led by Barnard Tabaire in the Supreme Court headed.
The government blamed the bombs on al-shabab, a terrorist group linked to al-Qaeda.
So it was furious over the Uganda record publication, and had Kalyegira interrogated by security personnel at the CID, later on searching his home and confiscating his laptop, cell phone, internet modem and passport.
Kalyegira who was with a team of lawyers led by Ladislaus Rwakafuuzi and a team of senior journalists and the Human rights Network for Journalists-Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda) team had been remanded till the 6th/June/2011 when he would plead to the charges.
It was alleged that the Grade 1 magistrate, Juliet Hatanga who has jurisdiction to handle this case and allow him enter plea, was not present.
Kalyegira has been under police harassment since he was interrogated, first charged with Sedition and released on police bond on 3rd/August/2010 at Kira road police station.
HRNJ-Uganda Uganda has learnt that Kalyegira had applied for his passport to enable him travel to South Africa and attends a Google conference.
Kalyegira who has been produced in court today on a production warrant was bailed out by Grade One magistrate Juliet Hatanga at a non cash bail of one million Shillings after denying charges.
Daily Monitor newspaper Education Editor Charles Mwanguhya and Investigations Editor, Chris Obore, as well as Makindye West MP Hussein Kyanjo, stood sureties for him. Each was bonded at Shs2 million (non-cash).
“These are cases intended to frustrate critical journalism in Uganda. This particular one cannot be proved in court since the law requires quoting a place where the crime was committed from. It does not apply in this case of an online publication" Said the HRNJ-Uganda Board Chairperson Robert Ssempala.
He said old laws are being used against internet use in Uganda and in a just society libel can only be understood as a civil suit than a criminal offense.
HRNJ-Uganda calls on the judiciary to quash the law because it undermines the right to freedom of expression and the principal of questioning those in public office.
For More Information Contact;
Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda)
Kivebulaya Road at Mengo Kampala Opp. St. Marcelino Pre. School
P.O.BOX. 71314 Clock Tower Kampala
Tel: +256-414-272934 / +256-414-667627
E-mail: news@hrnjuganda.org
humanrajournalists@yahoo.co.uk
Website: www.hrnjuganda.org
BLOG: http://hrnjuganda.blogpost.com/
Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda)
Kivebulaya Road at Mengo Kampala Opp. St. Marcelino Pre. School
P.O.BOX. 71314 Clock Tower Kampala
Tel: +256-414-272934 / +256-414-667627
E-mail: news@hrnjuganda.org
humanrajournalists@yahoo.co.uk
Website: www.hrnjuganda.org
BLOG: http://hrnjuganda.blogpost.com/
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