'Uganda Police Sodomized Detained Protesters'- Human Rights Lawyer

In Summary

• Over 114 youths arrested during anti-corruption protests in Kampala, Uganda.
• Detained protesters claim sexual assault; police deny allegations.
• Protests inspired by Kenya's anti-tax demonstrations, targeting alleged parliamentary corruption.
• Calls for independent investigation and accountability from international and local figures like Eron Kiiza.

KAMPALA, UGANDA- A Ugandan activist, among dozens detained this week for participating in banned demonstrations, was reportedly sexually assaulted while in police custody, his lawyer has revealed.

The protests, which saw more than 114 youths arrested in the capital city of Kampala, were organized to demand, among others, the resignation of the parliamentary speaker over corruption accusations she denies.

The protests on Tuesday and Thursday persisted despite President Yoweri Museveni's warning that demonstrators were "playing with fire." Inspired by recent anti-tax protests in Kenya, the Ugandan demonstrators faced swift action from riot police, who detained several activists, including a well-known TV/Radio personallity faiza Kwizera.

Although some detainees have been released, local media reports that an unknown number remain in custody, facing various charges.

Constutional and Human Lawyer Eron Kiiza, representing the assaulted activist and others, disclosed to the local media that his client was sodomized immediately after being detained. Mr. Kiiza acknowledged that while such attacks in police cells are not common, they do occur and need to stop.

"Rape or sexual assault of any nature, including sodomy by regime operatives against detainees are not new in Uganda and are sometimes employed to degrade, intimidate and dehumanize the victims. Police must investigate these sodomy revelations and hold perpetrators accountable rather than perfunctorily dismiss and deny them. The victims deserve, justice, accountability and compassion."-He told The African Exponent.

Journalist and Lawyer Agather Atuahaire, while speaking to The African Exponent said that the Police should investigate these allagations and stop being dismissive. She expressed concerns of lack of congent evidence such as medical reports to substantiate most claims because protesters are scared to come out openly and speak about it. Ms Atuhaire confirmed the allegations and expressed the huge need for an investigations and a report is published by the concerned authorities so that the ends of justice are met.

The US embassy in Kampala has urged for a thorough investigation into these allegations, calling for accountability for any perpetrators.

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke dismissed the claims as "unfounded" and "malicious," asserting that the police uphold the rights of suspects diligently.

However, Kiiza suggested that the police might be trying to link the protests to foreign funders, particularly those critical of Uganda's stringent anti-homosexuality laws enacted last year.

During the assault, his client was allegedly told: "Now you earn it."~The African Exponent learnt.

Kiiza, who possesses medical evidence of the assault, plans to sue the authorities once his client completes treatment and rehabilitation.

Due to security concerns, he withheld his client's identity and the location of the alleged abuse.

Opposition leader Bobi Wine, formerly a pop star known as Robert Kyagulanyi, alleged that other activists, both male and female, were also sexually abused while in detention. He noted that while few have publicly spoken about their experiences, many have reported them privately out of fear or shame.

The allegations have sparked a social media uproar, with calls for an independent investigation. Youth Minister Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi expressed his outrage on X, urging divine judgment on the perpetrators if the allegations are true. He also called for the police chief to investigate the claims.

Despite the backlash, President Museveni praised the police for their role in quelling the protests, which he claimed were funded by foreign sources. He warned of "very bad things" to be revealed about the protesters in court.

Amnesty International has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all those arrested, condemning the government's heavy-handed tactics as a clear attempt to stifle dissent.