KAMPALA, Dec. 3 — The National Unity Platform (NUP) Diaspora leadership has announced the successful completion of a fundraising effort to support political prisoners, raising Shs. 14,077,020 from contributions made by Ugandans living abroad. The funds, directed to the NUP Secretariat, aim to provide medical and welfare support to those released and those still detained under the military court martial.
Notable contributions included Shs. 1,389,000 from the UK Chapter, Shs. 1,826,000 from the South Korean Chapter, and Shs. 10,862,020 from the USA Chapter. These efforts reflect the diaspora’s solidarity with the political prisoners who have endured significant hardship, many detained for years without trial.
Despite these contributions, the NUP Diaspora leadership expressed concern over the continuing plight of political detainees. Civilians remain incarcerated and are subjected to military tribunals, with some refusing to submit to coerced confessions. The leadership emphasized that such actions violate international human rights law and amount to crimes against humanity.
“We call on the United States, European Union, UK, and other Western nations to impose targeted sanctions on the military officials enabling these kangaroo courts, as well as Museveni and his associates,” a statement from the diaspora leadership read. The group reiterated its commitment to seeking accountability, including filing cases with the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The NUP Diaspora underscored its unwavering support for the struggle to end Uganda’s dictatorship. “Together, we shall overcome and restore dignity and freedom to all Ugandans,” the statement concluded.