Lukwago backs Parliamentary protest for Human Rights

The FDC Katonga Road faction has supported the opposition Members of Parliament’s decision to boycott parliamentary sessions until the government adequately addresses human rights violations.

Erias Lukwago, the President of FDC Katonga faction, stressed the need to keep the government accountable and to prompt a shift towards a greater respect for human rights. He commended opposition MPs, led by Mathias Mpuuga, for their stance, emphasizing that their absence from Parliament serves as a strong message that the status quo is no longer acceptable.

It has been nearly three weeks since MPs walked out of Parliament, seeking answers regarding what they perceive as violations of Ugandans’ rights. Mpuuga announced that they would not return to parliamentary sessions until the government provides satisfactory explanations to ensure the prevention of similar incidents in the future.

In response, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa stated that efforts are underway to engage with relevant authorities, expressing confidence in a resolution. He also noted his concern that only one side of the parliamentary spectrum is currently participating in legislative proceedings.

The Kampala Lord Mayor expressed his disappointment at what he described as the government’s indifferent attitude, citing Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and Internal Affairs Minister David Muhoozi’s statements in Parliament, where they claimed to have already provided all available information regarding alleged human rights violations.

Lukwago further raised concerns about the Uganda Human Rights Commission, the body tasked with safeguarding human rights. He declared that the commission, under the leadership of Mariam Wangadya, not only fails to fulfill its statutory duties but has also become politically entangled. He criticized the commission’s protracted handling of referred cases.

In the lead-up to and following the 2021 general elections, numerous National Unity Platform supporters were arrested, with some facing legal trials and others still missing, having never undergone judicial processes.