Kawempe byelection: UHRC says complaints, investigations nearing completion

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The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) says investigations into complaints arising from the Kawempe North byelection violence are nearing completion.

Pauline Nansamba Mutumba, the director of complaints, investigations, and legal services at UHRC, says the commission received 11 complaints, eight from journalists and three from private citizens, following incidents that occurred during the process.

Speaking to the media at UHRC’s head office in Nakasero, Kampala, on June 19, 2025, Nansamba said the investigations are in advanced stages.

“We recorded all the statements of the complainants, retrieved medical documentation for those that were able to get, and we have recorded statements from most of the witnesses,” she added.

Nansamba said only two complainants remain to be interviewed before the file can be finalised. She stressed that once that is concluded, they will be able to list the matter for hearing before the tribunal, a session expected to be held later in the year.

Addressing questions about victims produced in court like Eddy Mutwe, Nansamba explained that once a matter is in court, UHRC is constitutionally barred from pursuing further investigation.

However, she noted that under Article 53 of the Constitution, UHRC acted within its powers to issue an order for his release after receiving reports of unlawful detention and were also able to talk to him, his family members and political allies, before his court appearance.

Nansamba also acknowledged challenges in investigating complex cases, citing limited human and financial resources.

She cited UHRC Masaka office currently lacking a stationed investigations officer.

Renewed commitment to end torture

In a joint statement ahead of the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, set for June 26, 2025, UHRC and other human rights organisations reaffirmed their commitment to ending torture in Uganda.

“Torture is not just illegal, it is immoral. Torture degrades, dehumanises, and destroys. It violates not only the body but the very essence of human dignity. And it has no place in any society that claims to uphold the rule of law,” the statement read in parts.

They stressed that Uganda’s legal framework leaves no room for ambiguity, citing Articles 24 and 44(a) of the 1995 Constitution, which categorically state that freedom from torture is absolute and non-derogable.

They stressed that the Prevention and Prohibition of Torture Act (2012), along with Uganda’s ratification of the UN Convention Against Torture, further reinforce this obligation.

“These laws must not remain on paper, they must be enforced without fear or favour,” the statement reads,” the statement emphasized.

UHRC commissioner Crispin Kaheru, who read the statement, urged all citizens to take a stand against torture.

“Survivors of torture carry lasting scars, physical, emotional, and psychological. Their trauma affects not just their health, but also their families, livelihoods, and sense of safety. We must do more. We must listen, believe survivors, and ensure they access justice, rehabilitation, and meaningful redress,” he said.

In a show of solidarity and commitment, UHRC, the Coalition Against Torture (CAT), the African Centre for Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture Victims (ACTV), the National Coalition of Human Rights Defenders-Uganda (NCHRD-U), and other partners have planned nationwide outreach activities and community engagements during this year’s commemoration.

Kaheru emphasised that the fight against torture is a collective responsibility.

“We must all raise our voices. Let this day be a symbol not just of remembrance, but of resolve. No more silence. No more torture. No more impunity,” he said.