By Zawadi Nanyonga,
KAMPALA
The Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) has urged the government to uphold democracy by respecting human rights, and court decisions. The party urged the immediate release of Dr. Kizza Besigye, Hajji Obed Lutale, and other political prisoners.
Sharon Oyat Arach, UPC’s spokesperson, cited the recent death of Hon. Ssegirinya, which was largely attributed to the government’s failure to provide timely medical care and a fair trial. She emphasized that the nation cannot afford another similar tragedy, urging for Besigye’s unconditional release.
“Listening to people’s cries and respecting them is an act of statesmanship, not a defeatist mentality,” Oyat stated.
Besigye is currently held in Luzira Prison charges of treachery, and he is in critical health conditions. He was today, Wednesday February 19, 2025, arraigned before the High Court for hearing if his habeas corpus application, but the court further remanded him to Luzira
The party also emphasized the need for a conducive political environment that allows political parties and their leaders to engage freely with the electorate. Such engagement, UPC noted, is crucial for the formulation of public policies and manifestos rooted in each party’s ideology.
In addition, UPC warned the Attorney General, Kiryowa Kiwanuka, against introducing a new bill aimed at amending the UPDF Act. This proposed amendment is seen as an attempt to reintroduce the military court martial system, which was recently declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court on January 31.
“UPC is aware of the looming new bill concerning the UPDF Act. Article 92 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda (1995, as amended) bars Parliament from enacting laws that contradict court decisions. We reiterate our call and urge the Attorney General, Mr. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, to uphold constitutional provisions and avoid amendments that would undermine the Court’s ruling,” UPC stated.
