The United Nations has raised alarm over what it describes as an escalating clampdown on opposition groups and the media in Uganda ahead of next month’s national election.
According to the UN rights agency, credible information shows that more than 550 people have been arrested and detained since the start of the year. Those affected include members and supporters of presidential hopeful Bobi Wine’s National Unity Platform (NUP).
“We strongly condemn the growing repression against the opposition and media in Uganda as the election approaches,” said Ravina Shamdasan, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
She said it was “deeply concerning” that campaign activities continue to be marked by widespread arbitrary arrests, detentions, excessive force, and tightened control over press freedom.
Reports of enforced disappearance, torture, and mistreatment of NUP supporters and activists have increased throughout the year. The OHCHR noted that security forces have allegedly used unmarked ‘drone’ minibuses to move individuals to unofficial detention locations known as safe houses, where they are kept without communication.
Heavily armed personnel have also been deployed around venues scheduled for NUP rallies.
The UN rights body urged the Ugandan government to end the recurrent pattern of repression, stop the use of “such repressive tactics,” and ensure impartial investigations into cases of disappearance, unlawful detention and torture. It further insisted that those found responsible be held accountable.
The agency called for the immediate release of all detainees, stressing that citizens must be free to participate peacefully and fully in political activities.
The statement also criticised attacks on media freedom, referencing incidents where journalists had their accreditation revoked for publishing critical reports.
Meanwhile, 81-year-old President Yoweri Museveni is seeking another term, aiming to extend his nearly four-decade rule in the upcoming 15 January election.
