COVID-19 guidelines do not violate human rights — UHRC

COVID-19

KAMPALA - The public has been asked to adhere to President Yoweri Museveni's directives and guidelines from the health ministry on the prevention of the coronavirus (COVID-19) because they do not violate human rights.

Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) acting chairperson Dr. Katebalirwe Amooti Wednesday said such preventive measures are consistent with the provisions of articles 23 and 43 of the country's Constitution.

UHRC urged security agents to respect human rights in the enforcement of the guidelines on preventive measures in line with article 221 of the Constitution.

Article 23 (1) guarantees the enjoyment of the right to personal liberty but also outlines circumstances under which one can be deprived of personal liberty which includes purposes of preventing the spread of an infectious or contagious disease.

"People should know that human rights can be limited for purposes of public order, public health, security, and morality," Katebalirwe said.

He said it is provided for in article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which Uganda ratified. 

Katebalirwe asked the Government to step up the current efforts to respect, protect and fulfill the right of every Ugandan to enjoy their right to health.

UHRC called on both duty bearers and rights holders to exercise maximum restraint as well as tolerance. Katebalirwe said the UHRC is available to address any emerging human rights issues and concerns.

Recommendations UHRC recommended that all persons who returned from Dubai and other highrisk countries voluntarily present themselves to the health ministry to be tested for COVID-19 immediately.

They also recommended that the Government protect the rights of the most vulnerable persons by implementing a human rights-based approach.

UHRC asked people under institutional and self-quarantine to strictly adhere to the instructions from the health ministry in order not to compromise the health of other people.