The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has expressed concerns over the conditions within the justice system in Masaka, citing prison congestion, allegations of torture, and challenges in protecting children in conflict with the law. The concerns emerged during a UHRC inspection of Masaka Central Government Prison, led by Commissioner Hon. Shifrah Lukwago on behalf of UHRC Chairperson Hon. Mariam Wangadya.
The inspection team, which included Commissioners Hon. Crispin Kaheru and Hon. Simeo Muwanga Nsubuga, Director of Regional Services Ms. Sarah Nakhumitsa, and Regional Head Ms. Justin Nambi Kasujja, interacted with prisoners and prison officials. Regional Prisons Commander ASP Phelix Mugasa informed the Commission that prisoners from Lwengo District contribute to the congestion at Masaka Prison due to the lack of a High Court in Lwengo.
The Commission was confronted with allegations of torture by some inmates, who claimed that their nails had been pulled out during interrogations while in police custody. These allegations will be examined as part of the human rights concerns assessed by the Commission. The UHRC is expected to engage relevant authorities and follow up on the issues as part of its mandate to monitor and promote human rights.
The UHRC also raised concerns over alleged discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS in employment. According to Ms. Justin Nambi Kasujja, prospective workers at Oil Palm Uganda Limited are subjected to HIV testing, and those found to be HIV-positive are not offered employment. This practice is a concern for the Commission, which is mandated to protect human rights.
Another major concern raised was the absence of a remand home for juveniles in the region. Children in conflict with the law have to be transported to facilities such as Naguru in Kampala or Kampiringisa in Mpigi, despite police facing inadequate facilitation to transport and manage the juveniles. This situation raises questions about the ability of the justice system to protect children.
The Commission also highlighted concerns over police officers increasing the recorded ages of juveniles so that they can be detained in adult cells when suitable juvenile facilities are unavailable. This practice undermines the protection of children in conflict with the law. The UHRC's Masaka inspection has brought several human rights concerns to the attention of the Commission.
The UHRC is expected to engage relevant authorities and follow up on the issues raised during the inspection. The Commission's concerns include overcrowding, alleged torture, employment discrimination, and gaps in juvenile protection. The UHRC's mandate is to monitor and promote human rights across the country, and it will likely take action to address these concerns.
Key points
- Prison congestion and alleged torture are major concerns in Masaka.
- The absence of a remand home for juveniles in the region is a significant challenge.
- The UHRC will engage relevant authorities to address the human rights concerns raised during the inspection.
