Jinja: The Uganda Human Rights Commission Tribunal, led by Chairperson Hon. Mariam Wangadya, on Thursday commenced the hearing of nine human rights violation cases at the Commission’s Jinja Regional Office, addressing complaints ranging from torture to violations of the right to personal liberty.
The tribunal panel included Hon. Shifrah Lukwago, Hon. Jacklet Atuhaire Rwabukurukuru, and Hon. Simeo Muwanga Nsubuga, who joined proceedings via Zoom. Of the nine cases, five were concluded while four were adjourned for further hearing.
According to Wangadya, the sittings are part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to ensure access to justice and accountability for victims of human rights violations. However, she expressed concern over the growing number of false and unsubstantiated complaints being filed before the Commission.
“When we said we are here to help, some people misunderstood us,” Wangadya said. “We have discovered that a number of complainants are bringing invalid complaints — cases without evidence, fake medical reports, or fabricated claims. Courts of law don’t operate like that. It is costly to lie to court, and it is a very bad practice.”
She revealed that some complainants have been conspiring with medical practitioners to fabricate evidence, warning that such individuals risk prosecution.
“Some individuals connive with doctors to support null and void cases. Those doctors will be taken to court,” she added.
Among the cases heard were complaints involving alleged torture, unlawful detention, and violations of personal liberty. Some complaints were upheld, while others were dismissed for lack of credibility or sufficient evidence.
In one notable decision, the tribunal dismissed a torture claim filed by Andevu Peter against the Attorney General, finding the complaint “based on falsehoods and brought in bad faith.” The tribunal ruled that Andevu’s testimony was riddled with inconsistencies regarding the date and cause of his alleged arrest, duration of detention, and nature of injuries. The tribunal also noted the suspicious nature of the medical evidence presented and the absence of corroborating police records.
The tribunal concluded that Andevu’s case was an attempt to defraud the government, and dismissed it with costs awarded against him.
In contrast, Bakaki Yusuf’s case was upheld after the tribunal found that his right to personal liberty had been violated. Bakaki was unlawfully detained for 15 days on allegations of spreading false rumors — a detention the tribunal deemed both unconstitutional and inhumane. He was awarded 10 million shillings in compensation for the violation of his rights.
Another case, Rwecungura Paul v. Attorney General, saw the tribunal rule in favor of the complainant after finding that he had been tortured and unlawfully detained for nine days by police officers investigating missing cattle. The tribunal awarded him 8 million shillings for torture and 100,000 shillings for unlawful detention, holding the Attorney General vicariously liable for the actions of the officers.
Wangadya stressed that while the Commission remains committed to upholding human rights and delivering justice to genuine victims, false complaints are undermining legitimate cases and delaying justice.
“We have a large number of files, and some are fake. These bogus cases waste time and obstruct serious matters that need attention,” she said.
She further cautioned Ugandans against filing false claims against security agencies, noting that some individuals provoke or attack police officers and later report to the Commission claiming torture.
“It becomes difficult for us to advocate for someone who attacks a police officer and later complains of being tortured,” Wangadya explained. “Such actions are dangerous and unjustifiable.”
The tribunal sittings in Jinja highlight the Commission’s dual role in protecting human rights and preserving the integrity of justice mechanisms. While the Commission continues to serve as a platform for redress, Wangadya reaffirmed that accountability cuts both ways — for state actors who violate rights and for citizens who attempt to abuse the system.
“The Commission is making an impact in communities,” Wangadya concluded. “But people must understand that justice depends on truth. Falsehoods not only fail — they also delay justice for those who truly deserve it.”
