Government rejects HRW report on Kasese killings

Mar 15, 2017

HRW in the report also called for independent investigations into the conduct of the security forces

Policemen bury the 52 unclaimed civilians who died in the November 26th & 27th clashes in Kasese. Photo by John Thawite

Government has defended the use of force in Kasese during last year's clashes at the palace of the Rwenzururu king, Charles Wesley Mumbere, insisting that it helped avert insecurity.

This after Human Rights Watch (HRW) published a report on Wednesday titled, ‘Ensure Independent Investigation in Kasese Killings' in which government is accused of underreporting the number of deaths that occurred.

Government slammed the report for having several inconsistencies and flaws that do not represent the true facts of the subject matter.

According to government, a total of 103 people were killed and 186 suspects picked by security forces.

Mumbere, currently released on court bail and his subjects still on remand have since been charged with murder, treason, and terrorism charges.

However according to HRW's report, the actual number is much higher including at least 15 children who lost their lives during the confrontation on November 27th.

"The report lacks depth, especially on the genesis of the near breakdown of law and order, which almost plunged the Rwenzori Sub Region into anarchy.

It deliberately omits the incidents that led to the security forces responding, not only to defend themselves but also to maintain law and order" the statement signed by Uganda Media Centre executive director, Ofwono Opondo, read in part.

HRW in the report also called for independent investigations into the conduct of the security forces and suspension of the the commanding army and police officers as well as investigating, prosecuting, and punish those responsible in accordance with international standards.

The report also called on government to protect witnesses and compensate the families of victims.

Government however dismissed calls for independent investigations since the matter is before the courts of law and said Uganda had independent investigative capability if the need arises.

The call to suspend some Army and Police commanders was also firmly dismissed.

Government's statement in full

Government Response to HRW Report on Kasese by The New Vision on Scribd

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