UHRC Chairperson Faces MP Scrutiny Over Case Management

The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) Chairperson, Mariam Wangadya, faced intense questioning from legislators on the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee concerning her management of public complaints about human rights violations. MPs alleged that Wangadya had been making decisions on cases without consulting other commissioners, leading to concerns about the commission’s impartiality and adherence to due process.

Appearing before the committee, Wangadya defended her actions, stating that many dismissed cases were submitted by individuals she identified as “hardcore criminals.” She cited an example of a convicted defiler who filed a complaint against the police for alleged over-detention, arguing that entertaining such cases would send a negative message to victims. Wangadya asserted that some complaints were filed with the intention of obstructing justice, allowing criminals to potentially minimize their culpability.

However, MPs like Hon. George Musisi (NUP, Kira Municipality) challenged this stance, emphasizing that the law does not permit the torture or violation of rights of any individual, regardless of their criminal status. Concerns were also raised by Hon. Richard Senteza (Lugazi Municipality) and Hon. Anna Adeke (FDC, Soroti District Woman Representative) about the procedural fairness of case dismissals and alleged unilateral actions by the chairperson.

Further complicating the situation, MPs highlighted a letter of resignation Wangadya had reportedly sent to the President, questioning her authority to lead. Wangadya clarified that the letter was confidential and intended for the President, referencing guidance from the Attorney General that she remains the substantive chairperson. She also reiterated that the “hardcore criminals” she referred to were convicts, many of whom were imprisoned for serious offenses like defilement.

The Committee Chairperson, Hon. John Teira, requested that Wangadya provide written responses to all the issues raised by the MPs on a later date.

Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/index.php/news/4514/lawmakers-quiz-uhrc-boss-over-case-management