By Our Reporter
Miriam Wangadya, Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), has reaffirmed her constitutional mandate following remarks made by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), regarding her intervention in the case of Eddie Mutwe, head of security for the National Unity Platform (NUP).
The disagreement arose after the UHRC issued a formal letter on April 26, 2025, calling for the release of Mutwe, who had been detained for several days under circumstances the Commission described as unlawful. The letter, issued under the Commission’s legal authority, requested that due process be observed in Mutwe’s case.
General Muhoozi, responding via social media, expressed dissatisfaction with the tone and content of the letter, suggesting it was inappropriate. However, Ms. Wangadya stood by her decision, emphasizing that the Commission acted within its constitutional mandate to safeguard human rights.
“For me, I am comforted that I issued the order invoking my authority under the Constitution and that it was complied with,” she stated. “Any subsequent comments from the CDF are inconsequential.”
Eddie Mutwe had been accused of robbery and aggravated robbery, though his legal team maintains the charges were politically motivated. His lawyers alleged that he had been subjected to physical abuse, including acts of torture.
UHRC’s Position
The Uganda Human Rights Commission, established under the Constitution, is mandated to investigate and monitor human rights violations and to ensure compliance with national and international human rights obligations.
In the face of public commentary on her actions, Ms. Wangadya maintained that the Commission will continue to perform its duties independently and without fear or favor.
“For me, I am comforted that I issued the order invoking my authority under the Constitution and that it was complied with,” she stated. “Any subsequent comments from the CDF are inconsequential.”
The situation has prompted renewed discussions on the balance between security operations and human rights obligations in Uganda. While acknowledging the challenges faced by security agencies, several civil society actors have called for constructive engagement and mutual respect between state institutions to maintain the rule of law.
As public interest in the matter continues, observers hope that such disputes can be resolved within institutional frameworks, reinforcing both accountability and cooperation among Uganda’s constitutional bodies.
