By The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) Tribunal has awarded a total of Shs18.1 million in compensation to victims of human rights violations in the Busoga and Bukedi sub-regions.
The tribunal, chaired by UHRC Chairperson Hon. Mariam Wangadya, sat at the Commission’s Jinja Regional Office on Thursday and handled nine cases involving allegations of torture, unlawful detention, and violations of personal liberty.
Out of the nine complaints, five were decided, with damages awarded in two of them.
In one of the rulings, the tribunal awarded Shs10 million to Bakaki Yusuf, a 47-year-old peasant from Mayuge District, who was unlawfully detained by police in 2018. The tribunal found that Bakaki’s arrest by CID officers from Mayuge Police Station was “malicious, vindictive, and punitive,” as it was based on unfounded accusations that he spread rumors about police officers selling firearms and uniforms to civilians.
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Another complainant, Rwecungura Paul, a 56-year-old peasant from Magamaga in Jinja District, was awarded Shs8.1 million for violations of his right to protection from torture and liberty. He was detained at Buwenge Police Station for nine days in December 2013 after reporting the disappearance of cattle under his care. During his detention, Rwecungura said he was severely beaten to force a confession, allegations the tribunal found credible.
Rwecungura commended the UHRC for its efforts, noting that since he filed his complaint, there have been no further reports of torture at Buwenge Police Station.
While addressing the media, Wangadya cautioned Ugandans against lodging false complaints with the Commission, revealing that some cases had been dismissed on grounds of falsehoods.
The hearing panel also included Commissioners Shifrah Lukwago, Jacklet Atuhaire Rwabukukuru, and Simeo Muwanga Nsubuga.
The UHRC said it remains committed to ensuring accountability for human rights abuses and upholding justice for all Ugandans.
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