KAMPALA, Uganda – The Resurgence Network for Human Rights has strongly condemned the Ugandan government’s continued persecution and imprisonment of political activists, highlighting the case of Olivia Lutaaya, Kalanzi Sharif, and 26 other comrades who have been detained for over four years. The organization criticized the government’s disregard for human rights principles and called for immediate action to address these injustices.
The Resurgence Network’s director expressed deep concern over the government’s failure to adhere to basic human rights principles. Despite repeated calls for justice, the detained activists have faced prolonged imprisonment under dubious circumstances. The recent adjournment of their case to June 17th, purportedly due to a “Red Eyes infection,” has only exacerbated frustrations and raised questions about the transparency and fairness of the judicial process.
Adding to the controversy, the welfare team and sureties of the detained comrades were denied access to the court martial premises. This denial of access not only violates the rights of the detainees but also undermines the confidence in the judicial system. The Resurgence Network emphasized that such actions are indicative of a broader pattern of repression and abuse of power by the Ugandan authorities.
The Resurgence Network for Human Rights calls on the Ugandan government to
Release Detained Activists: Immediately release Olivia Lutaaya, Kalanzi Sharif, and the other 26 detained activists, who have been unjustly imprisoned for over four years.
Ensure Fair Trials: Guarantee transparent and fair judicial proceedings for all political detainees, free from political interference.
Uphold Human Rights: Commit to respecting and upholding human rights principles, ensuring that all citizens are treated with dignity and justice.
Allow Access: Permit welfare teams and sureties access to detainees, upholding the rights of those imprisoned and their families.
The ongoing detention and persecution of political activists in Uganda represent a grave violation of human rights. The Resurgence Network for Human Rights stands in solidarity with those unjustly imprisoned and calls for immediate action to rectify these injustices. The international community must also hold the Ugandan government accountable, ensuring that the principles of justice and human rights are upheld for all.