MPs Want CMI Probed

By Richard Mutumba SEVEN MPs are moving a motion for Parliament to investigate reports of human rights violation by the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI). Addressing a press conference yesterday, the mover of the motion and MP for Otuke, Daniel Omara Atubo, said the motion would request the sessional committee responsible for human rights to investigate and report to the House within 30 days from the date of the resolution, allegations of human rights violations by CMI. The motion is seconded by Dr. Steven Malinga (Butebo); Aggrey Awori (Samia Bugwe North); Ken Lukyamuzi (Lubaga South); Michael Mabikke (Makindye East); Reagan Okumu (Aswa) and Alex Onzima (Maracha). Atubo told the press at Parliament House that Articles 208 and 209 of the Constitution clearly define the nature and functions of UPDF. He said Article 221 imposes on UPDF and other security forces the duty to observe and respect human rights and freedoms in the performance of their duty. He said whereas the NRA Statute of 1992 does not define the functions of CMI, there are increasing reports and public outcry that the CMI is involved in human rights violation. The MP said the motion would urge Parliament to condemn the CMI for violating human rights and freedoms. He said the House would also ask the intelligence agency to observe and respect human rights and not to arrest or detain civilians. Atubo said the motion would demand that the Minister of Defence tables before Parliament, within 30 days from the date of the resolution, a Bill to define the powers and functions of CMI. Asked what he intended to do if his motion was defeated, Atubo said it would show the kind of Parliament that Ugandans have—a Parliament that does not care about the rights of its people. Atubo also opposed the appointing of a military officer to head the Police. “These people are not trained in Police work. We are militarising everything and marginalising the Police,” he said. He said the CMI has moved from detaining people in “safe houses” to creating safe houses within the Police establishments gazetted by the law. Ends