Proactive public key in anti-torture fight - UHRC
Jun 18, 2019
“The public should take an active role and report cases of torture. Once people do not come to us, we will not know what is happening,”
HUMAN RIGHTS
Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has asked the public to be proactive in the fight against torture.
UHRC chairperson Med Kaggwa, on Tuesday, made the observation, as the commission commenced festivities to mark the International Anti-Torture Day, scheduled for June 26.
Addressing the press at the UHRC head office at Twed Plaza on Lumumba Avenue in Kampala, Kaggwa noted that the public must discard the assumption that UHRC is all-knowing.
"The public should take an active role and report cases of torture. Once people do not come to us, we will not know what is happening," said Kaggwa.
He was flanked by the chief executive officer, African Centre for Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture Victims (ACTV) Samuel Nsubuga, and Refugee Law Project social worker, Francis Okot.
Anti-Torture Day
On December 10, 1984, the convention against torture and other cruel inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, was adopted by the UN.
Subsequently, it was opened for signature, ratification and accession by the UN General Assembly (UNGA).
Accordingly, on December 12, 1997, UNGA by resolution 52/149 proclaimed June 26 as International Day in support of victims of torture.