news 13 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Law Society Report Flags Electoral Injustices and Abductions Undermining Rule of Law
A new report by the Uganda Law Society (ULS) has identified persistent electoral injustices, abductions, and limited access to justice as significant threats to the rule of law in Uganda during the first half of 2026. Despite acknowledging some legislative and judicial progress, the report highlights deep concerns over state-sponsored violations. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/electoral-injustices-abductions-still-undermining-rule-of-law-in-uganda-uls-report-5557296
A recent report from the Uganda Law Society (ULS) indicates that electoral irregularities and enforced disappearances continue to erode the rule of law in Uganda. The report, covering the period from January to June 2026, points to a troubling trend of human rights abuses and challenges in accessing justice, overshadowing positive developments in the legislative and judicial sectors.
According to ULS Vice President Antony Asiimwe, the findings reveal recurring violations of civil liberties, particularly during the pre-election and general election phases. These injustices have raised serious questions about the protection of electoral rights, the accountability of security agencies, and the ability of citizens and political actors to participate freely in the democratic process.
The ULS also documented continued reports of enforced disappearances and abductions throughout the country during the reporting period. These acts represent a severe threat to fundamental human rights and the principles of due process.
However, the report did acknowledge significant legal advancements. A landmark Constitutional Court ruling in March 2026 struck down contentious sections of the Computer Misuse Amendment Act, thereby strengthening freedom of expression. Additionally, the enactment of the Magistrates’ Courts Amendment Act expanded the jurisdiction of Chief Magistrates, bringing formal justice closer to ordinary citizens.
Other positive steps include the Employment Amendment Act 2026, which enhances protections against workplace harassment, and the establishment of eight regional Court of Appeal circuits to decentralize justice and reduce case backlogs. The Inspectorate of Government was also commended for its ongoing investigations into parliamentary corruption.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain. The effectiveness of the Integrated Court Management Information System (ICMIS) has been hampered by low internet penetration and inadequate stakeholder training. The ULS emphasized the need for continued dialogue between legal bodies, state agencies, and civil society to reinforce Uganda’s constitutional democracy.