The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has demanded transparency and strict observance of constitutional rights in the case of retired Lieutenant General Peter Elwelu, who was arrested in Soroti City on November 2. Elwelu is alleged to have been involved in subversive activities and planned to destabilize the Teso sub-region. The ULS has warned security agencies against arbitrary detention and public pronouncements that could prejudice his case.
According to the ULS, Elwelu must be accorded due process, regardless of his former military rank, public standing, or the allegations against him. ULS President Isaac K. Ssemakadde stated that Elwelu should be granted access to his lawyer, family members, and personal doctor, and be produced before a court of law within 48 hours, as required by the law. This is in accordance with Article 23 of the Constitution.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) claims that security operatives recovered 15 firearms, military fatigues, and two pickup trucks allegedly linked to Elwelu during the arrest. The ULS has condemned public statements that appear to presume Elwelu’s guilt before the conclusion of judicial proceedings, citing a potential repeat of alleged procedural violations in the case of opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye.
The ULS has invited Elwelu’s family, legal representatives, and personal doctor to its offices at ULS House in Kololo, Kampala, for discussions on measures to safeguard his rights. Ssemakadde pledged that the Society would closely monitor the proceedings, emphasizing that constitutional protections and the right to a fair hearing apply to every Ugandan, irrespective of their status, reputation, or position previously held in public service.
The arrest of Elwelu has raised concerns about the treatment of high-profile individuals in Uganda. The ULS has urged security agencies to respect the rights of all individuals, regardless of their background or position. The Society has also called for an end to arbitrary detention and public pronouncements that could prejudice the case.
The ULS is playing an active role in ensuring that Elwelu’s rights are protected. The Society has provided support to Elwelu’s family and legal representatives, and will continue to monitor the case closely. The ULS has also condemned any attempts to prejudice the case through public statements or other means.
The case has sparked a renewed debate about the rule of law and human rights in Uganda. The ULS has emphasized that the Constitution applies to all Ugandans, and that due process and transparency are essential in all cases. The Society will continue to advocate for the rights of Elwelu and all other individuals in Uganda.
Key points
- The Uganda Law Society demands due process and transparency in the case of retired Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu.
- Elwelu was arrested on November 2 over alleged involvement in subversive activities and plans to destabilize the Teso sub-region.
- The ULS has warned security agencies against arbitrary detention and public pronouncements that could prejudice Elwelu's case.
