On October 26, 2023, members of the Opposition in Parliament, led by Mr. Mathias Mpuuga, left the parliamentary session for the third time in two weeks, citing their demand for accountability regarding the November 2020 violence amidst election turmoil and concerns about human rights violations committed by security forces.
Mr. Mpuuga, the Leader of Opposition in Parliament, presented a list of grievances to the House, rejecting calls for calm from Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa. Among the demands outlined were a thorough discussion on the violation of human rights, respect for opposition leaders, and a commitment from the government to halt the infringement of the rights of opposition leaders and supporters.
He emphasized that as legislators, their allegiance was to the Constitution, and they drew their authority from its provisions. Mr. Mpuuga stressed that they would continue to expose human rights abuses by state agents, particularly the harassment, torture, and extrajudicial killings of opposition supporters.
Key concerns raised by Mr. Mpuuga included the need for accountability for the November 2020 killings, where security personnel were seen firing live ammunition at unarmed citizens. He also demanded answers regarding the arrest of 18 Ugandans reported missing by the Uganda Human Rights Commission, and the release of political prisoners held without trial.
The Opposition Leader reminded Parliament that three years had passed since the November 2020 violence, during which many were killed for protesting the violent arrest of National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu. He criticized the lack of justice and transparency surrounding the events.
Mr. Mpuuga pointed out specific incidents, such as the intentional deaths of Robert Kyagulanyi’s bodyguards Frank Ssenteza and Ritah Nabukenya, and questioned the absence of accountability for those responsible.
In response, State Minister for Internal Affairs, Gen David Muhoozi, argued that the government had previously addressed these concerns. Mr. Mpuuga rejected this response, noting a pattern of blaming all murders on Muslims and citing specific incidents where suspects were allegedly shot dead by security forces.
Another concern highlighted by the Opposition was the alleged fabrication of terrorism and related charges against their supporters, resulting in many being tried in military courts in violation of the Constitution.
Mr. Muhammad Nsereko, the MP for Kampala Central, expressed the fear within the Muslim community, emphasizing that young Muslim children should not live in fear of law enforcement due to indiscriminate arrests.
Prime Minister and Leader of Government Business in Parliament, Ms. Robinah Nabbanja, acknowledged the Opposition’s actions but stressed the need for Parliament to continue its work, citing concerns about their intent to destabilize the government.
