Judiciary launches rights committee to safeguard suspects’ health

________________

The Judiciary has established a Criminal Justice Health Rights Committee to oversee the health and welfare of suspects in detention, in a move aimed at strengthening human rights protections within Uganda’s criminal justice system.

The committee was inaugurated on Wednesday (March 18) at Skyz Hotel in Naguru, bringing together judicial officers, prosecutors, and public health officials.

Speaking at the event, Chief Justice Flavian Zeija said the initiative reflects the Judiciary’s commitment to upholding constitutional guarantees for all persons, including those in custody.

Chief Justice Flavian Zeija. (Photo by Mpalanyi Ssentongo)

“The right to health and humane treatment does not cease upon arrest. As the Judiciary, we must ensure that every suspect who comes before the courts is treated with dignity and in accordance with the law,” he said.

He added that the committee will serve as a critical oversight mechanism, helping courts respond more effectively to cases involving sick or vulnerable detainees.

“Justice must not only be done; it must be seen to protect the most basic rights, including access to medical care,” the Chief Justice noted.

The director of public prosecutions, Lino Anguzu, welcomed the development, saying it would improve coordination across the justice system.

“As prosecutors, we have a duty to ensure that suspects are not only brought to trial but that their rights are safeguarded throughout the process,” Anguzu said.

“Where a suspect’s health is at risk, that matter must be treated with urgency.”

From the health sector, Dr Stacia Turyahabwe highlighted the risks posed by detention facilities if health concerns are not properly managed.

Dr Stavia Turyahabwe, commissioner disease prevention & control, Ministry of Health, representing the Permanent Secretary (PS). (Photo by Mpalanyi Ssentongo)

“Places of detention are particularly vulnerable to outbreaks of communicable diseases. Strengthening monitoring and early intervention is essential not only for suspects, but for public health broadly,” she said.

Dr Turyahabwe added that closer collaboration between the Judiciary and health authorities would help ensure timely diagnosis, treatment, and disease prevention in custodial settings.

CJ Zeija (2nd right) with other guests at the eventt. (Photo by Mpalanyi Ssentongo)

Damiano Rutazama. (Photo by Mpalanyi Ssentongo)

According to officials, the newly formed committee will monitor the health status of suspects, advise courts on medical-related cases, and promote adherence to human rights standards in detention facilities.

The initiative comes amid growing concern from rights advocates over detention conditions, with stakeholders expressing hope that the committee will help bridge gaps between justice delivery and healthcare access for suspects.

Agnes Kainza Nzogi, Permanent Secretary, ODPP. (Photo by Mpalanyi Ssentongo)

Annet Nabulobi, Chief State Attorney, ODPP. (Photo by Mpalanyi Ssentongo)

Lino Anguzu, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). (Photo by Mpalanyi Ssentongo)

Dr Shaban Mugerwa, member, Equity Plan steering committee. (Photos by Mpalanyi Ssentongo)

Asst. Commissioner General of Prisons, Eli Muhumuza.

The head of Police Medical Health Services, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Moses Byaruhanga. (Photo by Mpalanyi Ssentongo)