Uganda Human Rights Commission Boss Denies Corruption Allegations Amidst Internal Strife

Mariam Wangadya, the Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), has broken her silence on what she describes as a “vicious, vile, and relentless smear campaign” targeting her leadership. Speaking to journalists amidst mounting allegations of corruption, Wangadya vehemently denied any involvement in criminal activities or being under investigation by any state agency.

Wangadya stated that these accusations have been deliberately propagated by three fellow commissioners since she assumed office in September 2021. She expressed the immense personal toll this campaign has taken, citing daily mental torture, humiliation, and defamation. The UHRC, constitutionally mandated to investigate human rights abuses and hold institutions accountable, faces significant challenges to its credibility due to these internal disputes.

“There is no money to steal, even if I were a thief, which I am not,” Wangadya asserted, highlighting the commission’s chronic underfunding. She pointed to her prior eight-year tenure as Deputy Inspector General of Government, where she claims she refused substantial bribes, as evidence of her integrity. Wangadya criticized sections of the media for allegedly publishing unverified claims, questioning their professionalism and motives.

She revealed that she had received warnings about internal resistance prior to taking office, with a Member of Parliament predicting that one commissioner would actively work to undermine her. Wangadya accused these colleagues of being “idle, shallow, crazy and seem not to know their roles,” prioritizing personal battles over the commission’s constitutional responsibilities. She also alleged intimidation and threats of physical violence during internal meetings.

Wangadya also addressed controversies surrounding the repatriation of the late Commissioner Fr Simon Lokodo, denying any misappropriation of funds. Furthermore, she discussed allegations of an undisclosed detention facility, stating her personal efforts to locate such a “basement” have been unsuccessful, but that the commission intends to investigate further.

This internal conflict raises serious questions about the stability and effectiveness of an institution vital for protecting citizens’ rights in Uganda.

Source: https://observer.ug/news/whats-tearing-ugandas-human-rights-commission-apart