They say the judiciary's silence have enabled prolonged injustices, persecution, and subjugation of civilians activists, political dissidents in military courts in the country.
A group of youth activists have called upon the
judiciary to break its silence on human rights violations, particularly when
Ugandans are prosecuted in military courts.
The activists claim that the judiciary's inaction and
silence have enabled prolonged injustices, persecution, and subjugation of
civilians, activists, and political dissidents in military courts across the
country.
Their call to judicially follows the ongoing trial of
Dr Kizza Besigye who was abducted in Nairobi-Kenya in November last year and
subsequently arraigned for trial in the General Court Martial. His lawyer, Eron Kiiza,
was also recently arrested at General Court Martial in Makindye, summarily
tried and sentenced to nine months in prison which he was on his duty of representing
his client.
Speaking
to journalists in Kampala, activists led by Agather Atuhaire condemned the
practice of trying civilians in military courts, criticizing the Judiciary, led
by Chief Justice Owiny Dollo for its silence on the matter, calling it a clear violation of human rights.
"Our
appeal is first and foremost to the judiciary, who are mandated by law to
protect citizens and uphold justice. They must take action, as no one is immune
to these injustices and impunity. Today it is Eron Kiiza, tomorrow it could be
anyone, including themselves in the judiciary," Atuhaire said.
She added: "Many people don't realize they could end up in similar situations.
For instance, former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi was a victim of the Public
Order Management Act, which he had supported. Similarly, former Inspector
General of Police Kale Kayihura faced similar circumstances. This is why I want
to emphasize to the judiciary and all Ugandans that upholding the rule of law
is crucial for everyone.”
//Cue in; “We cannot …
Cue out... remain silent when.”//
George
Victor Otieno, another activist, has urged the Supreme Court to expedite the
delivery of judgment in the Attorney General vs. Michael Kabaziguruka appeal and provide a clear timeline or explanation of the case's status.
//Cue in; “the judiciary …
Cue out... have to tell us.”//
Judith Nalukwago, another youth activist, has urged Ugandans
to unite in demanding that the judiciary put an end to the rampant violations of the law
and the persecution of government opponents and critics.
//Cue in; “tuyina okuvayo…
Cue out... netwogera ebigenda mumaso.”//
Last week
the same group of activists, in protest against Aron Kiiza’s arrest were
arrested in Kampala marching towards the High Court in Kampala, carrying
placards that called for his release. These were later produced in court and
later released on court bail.
On
Thursday, the same activists were barred from accessing the Supreme
Court as they attempted to present a petition to Chief Justice Owiny Dollo,
expressing concerns about the trial of civilians in the military courts,
particularly the case of lawyer Eron Kiiza.