January 10, 2025
By CMP Publications
Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Hon. Balaam Barugahara, has come under increasing scrutiny for his alleged involvement in supporting government crimes and violating the rights of Ugandans. Allegations against the minister have surfaced, with accusations of colluding with the Museveni administration to suppress political dissent and enable abuse of power.
The Allegations Against Barugahara
Reports have revealed that Barugahara is deeply entangled in orchestrating and supporting actions that undermine the rights of Ugandan citizens. One of the most troubling accusations came from Olivia Lutaaya, a former detainee, who claims that Barugahara played a key role in coercing prisoners from the National Unity Platform (NUP) into confessing crimes they denied committing. Lutaaya, who was allegedly threatened with prolonged detention, claims that Barugahara visited her in prison, urging her to accept charges under duress.
In addition, Barugahara has faced accusations of manipulating political prisoners and detainees to serve the government’s agenda, disregarding their constitutional rights. These actions have raised alarm within human rights circles, with many asserting that such practices are indicative of systemic violations that have persisted under President Museveni’s regime.
Barugahara’s Reaction to Allegations
In response to these grave allegations, Barugahara has dismissed the claims as “baseless” and “fabricated.” He also suggested that Lutaaya, the woman who made the accusations, might need medical intervention, further brushing aside the seriousness of the charges. His dismissive remarks have not only ignited further criticism but have also drawn attention to his role in perpetuating the very injustices he is accused of enabling.
This dismissal of accusations has been perceived as yet another example of the government’s attempts to silence opposition and deflect accountability for its actions. Critics have expressed concern that by protecting government interests and perpetuating these abuses, Barugahara continues to foster a climate of fear and injustice in Uganda.
The ‘Apology’ for Mismanagement of MP Ssegirinya’s Case
One of Barugahara’s most controversial moments came when he commented on the government’s handling of the late MP Ssegirinya’s affairs. Following the death of the MP, who had been subjected to questionable legal treatment and imprisonment, Barugahara suggested that the government had “mismanaged” the case. This weak apology has been widely condemned as an attempt to divert attention from the broader issue of government repression and systemic injustice.
Barugahara’s statement, rather than offering a genuine acknowledgment of the government’s failures, has instead been seen as a transparent attempt to save face while continuing the same policies that led to MP Ssegirinya’s mistreatment in the first place. Many Ugandans believe that this “apology” is just another attempt to pacify the public, as no meaningful change has been initiated to address the underlying human rights violations.
Human Rights Groups Condemn Barugahara
The Resurgence Network for Human Rights, a leading human rights organization, has strongly condemned Barugahara’s actions and his active role in violating the rights of Ugandans. The network has expressed outrage over the continued repression of political dissent and the government’s failure to address the systemic abuse occurring within the justice system.
“We, at the Resurgence Network for Human Rights, are appalled by Minister Balaam Barugahara’s actions. His involvement in crimes against the people of Uganda cannot be ignored. The government, with Barugahara as one of its key players, continues to trample on the rights of innocent citizens. We demand accountability for all those involved in these abuses,” said a spokesperson from the organization.
Human rights organizations have called for independent investigations into the allegations against Barugahara and his associates. They argue that the government’s attempts to cover up these violations only contribute to a growing climate of fear and repression in Uganda.
The accusations against Hon. Balaam Barugahara are a stark reminder of the widespread human rights violations that have been happening under President Museveni’s government. With his alleged involvement in coercion, suppression of political dissent, and the government’s failure to address cases like that of MP Ssegirinya, Barugahara’s role in Uganda’s political landscape is increasingly questioned.
As public outrage continues to grow, it is clear that the people of Uganda are demanding justice, transparency, and accountability. Whether Barugahara and his government allies will face the consequences for their actions remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the people will not stay silent in the face of injustice.
CMP Publications will continue to follow the developments surrounding these allegations and advocate for the rights and freedoms of all Ugandans.
Follow CMP News for more updates on this developing story.