The human rights organization of the Ugandan government has criticised the recent assault on journalists during the Kawempe North by-election, by the security forces.
The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) emphasized that this incident infringes upon press freedom and undermines a fundamental aspect of democracy.
In a statement released by Lamex Omara Apitta on behalf of the Commission’s Chairperson Mariam Fauzat Wangadya, it was highlighted that such harassment and violence hinder independent journalism, compromise the transparency of elections, and diminish public confidence in the electoral process’s integrity.
Additionally, the commission reported instances of intimidation and harassment directed at Electoral Commission (EC) officials by security forces, asserting that these actions violate the rights of election officials and jeopardize the credibility of the electoral process.
They also pointed out that confrontations involving public officials and voters could have led to voter suppression, ultimately resulting in a lower voter turnout.
“For an election to be free, fair, and credible, it must be conducted in an environment that is secure, safe, and peaceful, enabling citizens to exercise their right to vote,” Apitta noted.
He stated that the UHRC will persist in its investigation of the incidents and collaborate with pertinent institutions to uphold accountability and safeguard human rights in future processes.
The commission urged the government to protect media freedom and access to information, ensure accountability for human rights violations, maintain the independence of electoral officials, and bolster public trust.
