LOSCO QUARTERLY HUMAN RIGHTS SITUATION ANALYSIS AND KEY EMERGING ISSUES IN KIGEZI
April 1, 2025
Dear Human Rights Defenders, Actors and Partners in the Promotion and Protection of Human rights;
A Happy New Year!
Local Sustainable Communities Organisation (LOSCO) wishes to welcome you to the New year and the quarterly review of human rights quarterly situation and analysis hoping that all went on well through the last year as this year of elections brings everyone aboard for the elective participation and accountability, governance and rule of law at play.
LOSCO brings you some of the key highlights from last quarter in the context of human rights, key emerging issues and the environment of human rights defenders in Uganda and appreciates you for taking time off to think through what you can contribute to the promotion and protection of Human Rights, Governance and Rule of Law at the sub national, national and regional level as well as contributing to the Global Human Rights promotion as you reflect on the information shared.
Below are some of the highlighted issues:
KIGEZI SUB REGIONAL SITUATION:
MINISTER MUSASIZI BACKS BAN ON POLICE BONDS, WARNS CRIMINALS TO COUNT THEIR DAYS
RUBANDA: Minister of Finance (General Duties), Henry Musasizi, welcomed President Yoweri Museveni’s directive on the complete cessation of police bond issuance for criminals, describing it as a vital measure to curb criminality and enhance security within communities.
President Museveni explained that the decision was prompted by increasing insecurity, particularly theft and other petty crimes. He argued that the practice of granting police bonds to suspects especially in cases involving theft was exacerbating the problem by enabling alleged criminals to rejoin society before their cases were resolved.
KISORO TEENAGER BEDRIDDEN FOR TWO YEARS, FAMILY SEEKS HELP AFTER SPINAL INJURY
KISORO: A 38-year-old man from Buzeyi Village, Rukongi Parish, Nyarusiza Sub-County in Kisoro District is appealing for financial support to help his 14-year-old son, Manirunva Simon who has been bedridden for two years following a life-altering spinal injury.
Manirunva’s spinal cord got dislocated after being hit by a rolling stone during heavy rains in Nyarusiza Sub-County two years ago.
Both Nvuyekure Godfrey the victim’s father and Champaye Phiona his mother, say their son, Maniruva, the eldest of their five children, has been left paralyzed by the accident. His condition has deteriorated to the point where he cannot move, causing parts of his body, including his buttocks, to develop sores.
TOUGH ACTION AGAINST ELECTION VIOLENCE AHEAD OF 2026 POLLS AWAITS
KISORO: The Kisoro District Police Commander (DPC), Ben Niwamanya Kashumbusha warned of arrest to anyone attempting to assault, threaten, or harm voters during the upcoming 2026 elections strongly condemning any form of threats or assaults by politicians in their quest for victory.
Niwamanya, issued this warning while addressing the media at his office at Kisoro Police Station headquarters emphasizing that elections are a time for politicians to present their manifestos and campaign peacefully, not to engage in verbal or physical confrontations. He urged Kisoro residents to focus on productive activities to promote personal and community development.
MAN REMANDED FOR THREATENING POLICE OFFICER, PLEADS FOR FORGIVENESS
KABALE: The Kabale Chief Magistrates Court charged and remanded a 24-year-old man to Ndorwa Government Prison for threatening to kill a Uganda Police officer in Rukiga District.
Kabale Chief Magistrate, His Worship Derrick Byamugisha, heard that on 14th January 2025, Edmund Agaba, a resident of Rushebeya village, Kitojo Parish, Rwamucucu Sub-county in Rukiga District, threatened to harm ASP John Akankwasa, a police officer attached to the Rukiga District Police Station. The incident occurred in Murujanjara village, where Agaba allegedly acted with intent to intimidate, insult, or annoy the officer noting that Agaba’s actions are in violation of Section 77(1) of the Penal Code Act.
KISORO LEADERS CONDEMN CORRUPTION AND BROKEN PROMISES
KISORO: As the National Resistance Movement (NRM) prepared to commemorate its 39th Liberation Day, leaders from Kisoro District expressed dissatisfaction with the celebrations, accusing the government of failing to address key issues such as corruption where some leaders in Kisoro District criticized the expenses associated with the event, arguing that the funds could be better utilized to address pressing national issues. Baker Niyigaba, the Kisoro District Councilor for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), condemned the government’s failure to tackle corruption and the embezzlement of public funds, which he said has significantly hampered service delivery across the country.
A SUSPECT LYNCHED, BODY MUTILATED BY ANGRY CROWD.
KANUNGU: A mob in Kanungu District lynched a 35-year-old man for allegedly robbing UGX 300,000 belonging to a fellow resident. Identified as Joseph according to eyewitnesses trespassed and gained access into the home of one Bajumwa Beatrice and made off with the cash. An alarm was raised hence attracting nearby people who included army officers on guard duties apprehended the suspect and handed him over to the Chairperson LC1 of Kihembe Central Mr. Kazoba Frank but before the police could intervene, the mob overpowered the area Chairperson and forcefully grabbed the suspect, ultimately killing him and later mutilated his body into pieces.
Source: https://westernpearlnews.com/suspected-thief-lynched-body-mutilated-by-angry-crowd/
FAMILY MEMBERS FACE MURDER CHARGES OVER LAND DISPUTE
KABALE: Kabale District Police arrested three suspects from the same family in connection with the alleged murder of a 60-year-old man Kawiti Africano after resistance from his family members, who demanded that he retrieve the land or purchase another piece of land to replace it. They resorted to threats and violence and use of force to regain back their land which gave birth to earlier offences of criminal trespass vide Buhara SD 06/07/10/2024 which was still under Investigations.
Source: https://westernpearlnews.com/family-members-face-murder-charges-over-land-dispute/
RUKUNGIRI YOUTH DECRY UNEMPLOYMENT CRISIS, URGE GOVERNMENT ACTION
RUKUNGIRI: The youth in Rukungiri District expressed frustration over the lack of employment opportunities, which they say has led to increased depression and drug abuse in the area.
Among those voicing their concerns are Akamumpa Raymond, a resident of Nyakiina Parish in Buyanja Town Council, and Tashobya Nicholas from Rukungiri Municipality. They noted that many educated youths struggle with depression due to unemployment, forcing some to turn to drug abuse.
These concerns were raised during the Boda Boda Cup tournament organized by Mwesigwa Mathias Rwabugumi, a hopeful candidate for the Rubabo County Member of Parliament seat.
The youth urged the government to consider both school dropouts and graduates when creating employment opportunities. They called for the establishment of industries that could absorb both skilled and semi-skilled workers.
LEADERS UNITE VOICES AGAINST SECTARIANISM
KABALE – A section of Political and Religious Leaders in Kabale district united their voices to condemn a vice of sectarianism in Kigezi region calling it an “enemy” to good leadership and socio development. They condemned the vice while speaking at different public gatherings. Sectarianism is defined as excessive attachment to a particular sect or party, especially in religion which leaders’ call for the need for combined efforts to end. This comes at a time where a section of priests from Kabale diocese received criticism from the general Public after releasing lists of intending Political candidates they support and want their church goers to vote in the fourth coming Parliamentary elections.
They said that Sectarianism deprives societies of getting able leaders especially if an able leader is from the minority group in the society asking locals to vote people’s capacities to deliver to electorates, not religious attachments, as effective service delivery is not linked to any religions but to a person’s capacity to lobby for the area they represent.
Source: https://www.apearlnews.net/national/kabale-leaders-unite-voices-against-sectarianism/
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CLAIMS THE LIFE OF A 55 YEARS OLD MAN.
RUBANDA – The territorial Police in Rubanda are investigating circumstances surrounding the death of a 55 Years Old Man through assault by his matrimonial wife at Nyarurambi village Ikamiro Parish Muko Sub County Rubanda District. Julius Rwanyarare male adult aged 55 years, Mukiga by tribe, peasant and a resident of Nyarurambi Cell Ikamaro Parish Muko Sub County in the Rubanda District whereas the suspect is Nyangire Estali female adult, aged 51 years old, Mukiga by tribe, peasant, and a resident of Nyarurambi Cell Ikamaro Parish Muko Sub County in the Rubanda District.
A case of Assault was reported to Police by Byaruhanga Milton male adult aged 61 years old Mukiga by tribe Chairperson LC1 Nyarurambi Cell Ikamaro Parish Muko Sub County in Rubanda District and registered at Muko Police Station vide SD REF: 16/15/03/2025 and being investigated vide Rubanda Police CRB 105/2025 as Murder arising out of a domestic violence.
OVER 6,000 REFUGEES FLEE CONFLICT IN DRC
KISORO: Kisoro District has received over 6,000 refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) since the beginning of March due to escalating conflict in Eastern DRC and according to the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Hajji Badru Ssebyalla the number of refugees entering Kisoro continues to rise daily as people flee hostilities in search of shelter and food.
In an Interview, Ssebyalla noted that the Nyakabande Transit Centre is now overcrowded. To manage the influx, authorities are transferring refugees from Nyakabande to other centers to create space for new arrivals as he cautioned Kisoro residents, particularly those in sub-counties and town councils near the border, against providing accommodation to refugees warning that some individuals may be fleeing as fighters, while others could be carrying illnesses or have intentions of destabilizing peace and security in Uganda, especially in Kisoro.
TO OPEN IN JULY 2025; The DISTRICT HOSPITAL PROMISES IMPROVED HEALTHCARE
RUBANDA: The Rubanda District LC5 Chairman, Ampeire Stephen Kasyaba, has revealed that the first-ever Rubanda District Hospital, located in Kamugongo, Rubanda West, Muko Sub-county, will be operational starting July 1, 2025.and confirmed that the central government has already allocated funds for paying medical staff salaries. He also revealed that the UPDF Engineering Brigade, which is overseeing the hospital’s construction, has assured them that the work will be completed on time.
With the hospital’s opening on the horizon, Rubanda residents can look forward to improved healthcare services, marking a significant milestone for the district.
MAID SENTENCED TO 40 YEARS IN PRISON FOR TORTURING A 4 YEAR MINOR.
KABALE/KAMPALA: The 37-year-old maid, Tumuhirwe Precious, who pleaded guilty of torturing a 4-year-old child, causing her grievous body harm was sentenced to 40 years in jail. Appearing before Kira Chief Magistrate Shallon Niwaha, Tumuhirwe faced charges of torture for the December 27, 2024 attack that happened at Kikoko Zone, Namataba Cell, Kirinya Ward in Wakiso District. She was employed as a housemaid arrested in Kabale, where she had fled after the assault of Claire Tumwekwa (the victim) the Minor in the home. The video, which shows Precious repeatedly assaulting the minor in a bathroom, triggered widespread condemnation, with calls for swift justice and tougher penalties for child abuse.
UGANDA NATIONAL METEOROLOGICAL AUTHORITY WARNS OF ABNORMAL RAINS, HAILSTORMS, AND STRONG WINDS THIS SEASON
The Uganda National Meteorological Authority has issued a warning about abnormal weather patterns this season, forecasting heavy rains, hailstorms, flash floods, lightning, and strong winds. The authority urged the public to take precautions against these extreme weather conditions, which could disrupt daily activities and cause damage to property.
Source: https://x.com/nbstv/status/1904166961757446347
NEIGHBOURHOOD REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
M23 REBELS REJECT AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL’S CLAIMS ON SOUTH KIVU DEATH TOLL
GOMA: The M23 Rebels have strongly condemned and rejected what they call irresponsible misinformation from certain human rights organizations, particularly Amnesty International.
M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka dismissed the allegations, citing a communiqué from the DRC/Red Cross South Kivu dated March 20, 2025 refuting claims that 406 bodies were recovered in South Kivu province between February 17 and March 13, 2025, by the Red Cross.
He argued that the figures being circulated did not originate from the Red Cross, an organization known for its neutrality, impartiality, and discretion.
Kanyuka denounced what he called an attempt at manipulation and urged both the national and international community to disregard these “false allegations” frequently promoted by human rights organizations.
EAST CONGO CEASEFIRE IN TROUBLE AS REBELS STAY IN STRATEGIC TOWN
The ceasefire in eastern Congo is in jeopardy as M23 rebels continue to occupy the strategic town of Walikale, a key mining hub. Despite an agreement to withdraw, the rebels have stayed due to the presence of Congolese forces, delaying peace efforts. This disruption threatens supply routes and the region’s stability. The ongoing conflict has led Angola to end its mediation role, and a new African nation will take over the peace process. The situation highlights the challenges in achieving lasting peace in the region.
IN THE QUARTER,
Citizens in Kabale Area are concerned about public accountability and service delivery which entail human rights issues that include but not limited to;
- Parents’ denial to the VHTs to provide vaccination to children, most especially polio.
- Limited salaries and transportation allowances to the VHTs and refusal to pay them when contracts indicate paying workers for services that they do in the community.
- High expectations of the clients to be given services when referrals are done and the expenses involved
- Citizens report that there are no medicines in the facilities to give to the patients and they get burnt when they are expired.
- Inaccessibility (poor road network that limits service delivery) as a result of ragged terrain in Kigezi and the impact of heavy rains as a result of climate change.
- Limited power supply thus hindering the service delivery of pregnant mothers due to persistent power shutdowns
- Limited beds in labour rooms for pregnant mothers added to the rudeness of some midwives affecting the expectant mothers’ mental health.
- Limited trained teachers in schools and consistent absenteeism amongst the teachers lowering the education levels added to unaffordability of the grassroots parents’ payment of several school dues leading to children abandoning schools.
- Climate change has serious impact i.e. heavy rains wash away the temporary bridges and also limit mobility for the teachers and learners.
- Bribery and corruption while asking for votes is already taking a centre stage and the voters are still languishing in abject poverty which is a bad sign added to the escalating impact of religion on political landscape heading into the general election of 2026.
- No toilets for the physically challenged persons added to other services and inclusivity in planning and implementation processes.
- Limited manpower expected at the Health Centre II’s and III’s which breeds corruption and risky service delivery.
However; with the HUMAN RIGHTS BASED APPROACH TRAINING AS A MEANS OF PROMOTING AND PROTECTING THE RIGHTS OF VULNERABLE AND MINORITY GROUPS in Kigezi conducted by the ICGLR-RTF in collaboration with Uganda Police Force with support from British High Commission of Uganda (BHC) under the Project Uganda Open Societies Programme II: Accountability, Human Rights, Social Cohesion and Portfolio Strategic Fund to strengthen the capacity of Uganda Police Force and other actors in the Justice System on Human Rights Based Approach and Promoting the Rights of Vulnerable groups- (Women, Elders, Children, Persons with disabilities, refugees) including civil and political rights. As a result of consultative meetings with stakeholders in Justice system that included CSOs like LOSCO and developed the Human Rights Training Tools for building the capacity of Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons Service, Judiciary, Probation Office, Uganda Human Rights Commission, Electoral Commission and CSO Actors in the justice system of Uganda that bred a five days training on Human Rights Based Approach (HRBA) and Promoting the Rights of Vulnerable Groups in Kigezi Region (Elderly, Children, Persons with disabilities, Refugees) including Civil and Political Rights, its believed that several issues will be progressively addressed more emphasis placed on the observance of the 48hr Rule on detention of suspects and issues of torture of all kinds.
THANKS FOR READING! MAY YOU HAVE YOURSELF A GREAT QUARTER AHEAD!!!