The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has expressed grave concerns over the Uganda Police Force’s inadequate handling of torture cases, leading to a troubling pattern of perpetrators evading justice.
Speaking at a joint press conference with the African Centre for Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture Victims (ACTV) ahead of the UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, UHRC member Crispin Kaheru highlighted the absence of specific torture-related data in police annual crime reports. This omission suggests a lack of prioritization of torture as an issue within the police force.
“Torture is a criminal act that violates human rights and should not be treated lightly by law enforcement,” Kaheru emphasized.
According to ACTV, an average of 1,000 Ugandans annually report cases of torture and ill-treatment. However, the police crime report of 2023 categorized instances of torture under child abuse, with 866 cases recorded, raising concerns about the accurate reporting and investigation of such cases.
Kaheru further noted that despite UHRC documenting 141 torture cases last year, victims often hesitate to report due to fear of retaliation and lack of trust in the investigative process. This reluctance is exacerbated by the perception that law enforcement, including the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), may be complicit in such acts.
Samuel Nsubuga, CEO of ACTV, highlighted the increase in complaints against private individuals, totaling 1,053 from 2018 to 2023. He stressed the need for enhanced civic education and police vigilance to address these violations effectively.
While Uganda has laws prohibiting torture and ratified the Convention against Torture, UHRC emphasized that impunity persists, particularly within security agencies. Kaheru called for concerted efforts to ensure all perpetrators face legal consequences, noting the public’s role in reporting abuses through platforms like social media.
Kamadi Byonabye, UHRC’s Director of Education, lamented funding constraints that hinder the commission from investigating reported cases effectively. Despite receiving reports, only a fraction are thoroughly examined due to limited resources.
The UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture will be marked at Kampala’s Railway Grounds, featuring a march led by Minister of Internal Affairs General Kahinda Otafire. This event aims to raise awareness and advocate for justice for victims of torture in Uganda.
Torture remains one of the most violated human rights in Uganda, despite constitutional provisions and international commitments aimed at its prevention and prosecution.
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