The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has expressed concern over what he described as an escalating crackdown on dissent in Uganda, warning that increasing restrictions on fundamental freedoms are creating a climate of fear and undermining the rule of law.
In a statement issued in Geneva on Thursday, Türk said Uganda has witnessed a deterioration in the human rights situation since the January 15, 2026 general elections, citing reports of enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, torture and intimidation targeting opposition members, human rights defenders and journalists.
“I am appalled that the authorities are increasingly targeting any form of dissent and deepening restrictions on the fundamental freedoms of all those living in Uganda. Those who dare to speak out are silenced,” Türk said.
According to the UN Human Rights Office, at least 50 opposition leaders and supporters, five human rights defenders, and five journalists have allegedly been subjected to human rights violations since the elections. The reported abuses include enforced disappearances, torture, ill-treatment and arbitrary arrests or detention under laws the UN says do not comply with international human rights standards.
The High Commissioner also raised concerns over shrinking civic space, noting that 10 leading civil society organisations have been suspended since January, while others have reportedly faced increased scrutiny and harassment.
Türk further pointed to what he described as growing military involvement in functions traditionally carried out by civilian institutions and said some media outlets had been forced to suspend operations.
He also criticized the Protection of Sovereignty Act, enacted in May 2026, arguing that it places extensive restrictions on international funding and foreign engagement with civil society organisations. The law provides for penalties, including prison sentences of up to 10 years for violations.
“The actions of the authorities are creating a climate of fear that is increasing self-censorship, further stifling public debate and deepening polarisation,” he said.
The UN rights chief called on the Ugandan Government to uphold its obligations under international human rights law, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Ugandan Constitution by protecting freedom of expression, civic participation and the rule of law.
He also urged authorities to safeguard the separation of powers by preventing military interference in civilian institutions and encouraged Uganda to leverage its economic opportunities while ensuring that development is grounded in respect for human rights.
Türk reaffirmed the UN Human Rights Office’s commitment to supporting Uganda in strengthening respect for human rights and democratic governance.
The statement has generated political debate, with opposition figures, including National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, sharing the UN’s concerns on social media.
Meanwhile, Uganda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations reportedly rejected the allegations, describing the statement as biased and arguing that it relied on information from what he termed a discredited UN human rights office. Government supporters have also maintained that security operations have been conducted within the law and have pointed to incidents in which opposition supporters allegedly attacked security personnel and journalists during the election period.
The UN statement adds to ongoing international scrutiny of Uganda’s human rights record following the 2026 general elections.
