UHRC Chairperson Summoned to Parliament Over Audit Report

The Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) has issued a stern directive for Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) Chairperson Mariam Wangadya to present herself on Friday, July 24, 2026. Her absence from a meeting scheduled to scrutinize the Auditor General’s report has led to significant concerns within the committee regarding the commission’s leadership and accountability.

Officials from the UHRC acknowledged during a Wednesday session, chaired by Hon. Muwada Nkunyingi, that the commission has not convened a formal meeting since March 2026. This lack of formal deliberation is particularly troubling given that the law mandates the commission to oversee the institution’s operations.

Kamadi Byonabye, the acting Secretary and Accounting Officer, faced questioning regarding governance issues. He indicated that Chairperson Wangadya had been informed of the committee’s invitation but reportedly cited the technical nature of the Auditor General’s report as a reason for potential non-attendance. Hon. Nkunyingi warned that failure to appear would result in parliamentary measures, including potential summons or warrants to compel her attendance.

Further revelations highlighted a lack of regular commission meetings, which are critical for decision-making. Commissioner Simeo Nsubuga confirmed that the last meeting was in March, and admitted to not formally reminding the chairperson or other commissioners to schedule subsequent meetings. This has led to questions about how the UHRC has continued to function and submit reports to Parliament without proper executive oversight.

The committee also learned that the UHRC’s tribunal system has effectively stalled. According to the Uganda Human Rights Act, the chairperson is essential for presiding over tribunal proceedings. Without her presence, cases requiring tribunal hearings cannot move forward. This dysfunction extends to the handling of human rights complaints, with the tribunal sessions last being held in December 2025 due to budget constraints for hearings.

While Ms. Wangadya submitted a notice of resignation on July 6, 2026, the Attorney General’s advice clarifies that her resignation is contingent on formal acceptance by the appointing authority, meaning she remains the substantive Chairperson. The committee expects her to address these critical operational and governance issues.

Source: Parliament of Uganda