The European Parliament adopted a resolution on Uganda, particularly the arrest of parliamentarians from the opposition.
The resolution was tabled by the EPP, ECR, ALDE, Greens/EFA, S&D and GUE/NGL groups. It began by expressing its deep concern at the arrest of opposition parliamentarians in connection with the Arua by‑election held on 15 August, which resulted in the election of independent opposition candidate Kassiano Wadri. Recalling that 33 people were charged with treason the day after the election Members called on the Ugandan authorities to stop the crackdown against opposition politicians and drop what appear to be trumped-up charges against Bobi Wine (independent MP Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu), who has emerged as an influential critic of President Museveni after winning a seat in the Ugandan Parliament in 2017, and who was reported to have been tortured while in custody.
The Ugandan authorities were also urged to immediately launch an effective, impartial and independent investigation into the killing of Yasin Kawuma, Bobi Wine’s driver, who was shot dead in unclear circumstances on 13 August 2018, as well as investigations into the reports of deaths and excessive use of force during the protests. Members stressed that it is vital for Ugandan democracy that the President and Government of Uganda respect the independence of the country’s Parliament. They reminded Uganda of its international obligations regarding respect for fundamental freedoms and the need to comply with the Ugandan Constitution regarding the prohibition on the use of torture. Noting with concern that journalists covering recent political demonstrations and riots have been beaten along with participants, Members called on the Ugandan security forces to show restraint when policing protests, to desist from using live bullets, and to allow journalists to freely carry out their work of information.
Parliament called on the EU to take advantage of the political leverage provided by development aid programmes, especially budget support programmes, with a view to enhancing the defence and promotion of human rights in Uganda. The VP/HR should closely monitor the situation and the European Parliament should be informed of any further signs that opposition members of the Ugandan Parliament are being hindered or obstructed in their work as legislators.
Lastly, Members commended the work accomplished by the Ugandan Human Rights Commission following the arrests, killings and torture arising from the Arua by‑election, including reporting, investigating the whereabouts of missing persons, and interventions to guarantee the rights of prisoners.