Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) Chairperson Mariam Wangadya has accused President Yoweri Museveni of weakening the commission through what she described as poor and politically motivated appointments, amid growing internal divisions within the institution.
Wangadya said the President had shown little respect for the commission by appointing individuals she described as unsuitable for the constitutional body, claiming the UHRC had been turned into a “dumping ground for political failures.”
“I have a complaint towards my good President Yoweri Museveni; he has shown us time and again that he has no respect for this commission,” Wangadya said.
She added:
“When I look at the members he’s appointed to the commission, he’s turned this place into a dumping ground for people who were rejected by voters; politicians who were drained of all resources from campaigns, those who are completely broke, those who are sick and dying and need ARVs; those are the ones being sent here.”
Wangadya said the appointments reflected a lack of regard for the institution’s importance, noting that the commission handles Chapter Four of the Constitution, which she described as the biggest chapter containing the Bill of Rights.
“I call upon you Mr President; this commission is extremely important… this commission has the widest and most serious mandate touching the rights of Ugandans but the people you are picking for it, because you need to save them from moneylenders and loan sharks; please sir… I beseech you, start seeing value in this commission,” she said.
She further appealed to the President ahead of future appointments, saying the quality of commissioners determines the effectiveness of the institution.
Wangadya, whose tenure is nearing its end in September next year, said internal infighting within the commission has undermined its work, with some commissioners allegedly focusing on fighting leadership rather than delivering on the mandate.
“Tomorrow, I will not be here; my term ends September next year, but when choosing the next chair and members of the commission, show some respect,” she said. “But when you just dump people here that have no credibility, what do you expect from them? That is what we are seeing here. All they do is fight their bosses.”
She also alleged that some commissioners have been engaging in internal schemes and media campaigns instead of focusing on their duties.
“They add no value to the commission. Their job is to hold shady meetings, running around in media houses, seeking an audience with the First Lady, the CDF, Gen Salim Saleh, asking to have me arrested,” she said.
Wangadya said that poor selection criteria had contributed to dysfunction within the commission, arguing that poverty or personal financial struggles should not be the basis for appointments.
“If the qualification you see is people trying to save them from poverty; then you must not be surprised by this,” she added.
The current UHRC members include Shifrah Lukwago, Crispin Kaheru, Jacklet Atuhaire Rwabukurukuru, Simeo Muwanga Nsubuga, Steven Basaliza and Omara Apitta Lamex.
Recent reports indicate that three commissioners Simeo Nsubuga, Steven Basaliza and Jacklet Atuhaire Rwabukurukuru petitioned President Museveni and the Inspector General of Government, accusing Wangadya of financial misconduct, abuse of office and maladministration.
The allegations include claims relating to NSSF contributions, salary enhancements, office funds, procurement, recruitment and promotions.
The commission has dismissed the allegations as false and defamatory.
Wangadya returned to the UHRC as chairperson in September 2021 after previously serving as Deputy Inspector General of Government and as one of the founding members of the commission.
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