NUP’s Ottawa Chapter Protest Against Human Rights Violations Under Museveni

On Saturday, April 20th, 2024, members of the NUP Diaspora Ottawa Chapter gathered in the Canadian capital to spotlight the pressing human rights issues and economic difficulties faced by Uganda under President Yoweri Museveni’s leadership. The demonstration sought to draw international attention to these urgent matters.

Participants at the demonstration called attention to severe human rights violations in Uganda, including abductions, forced disappearances of civilians, particularly those from opposition groups, and the arbitrary detention and military trials of political opponents. These practices blatantly violate constitutional rights and the principle of due process. The economic situation in Uganda was also a focal point. Demonstrators expressed their solidarity with the business community and ordinary citizens struggling under the weight of high taxes paired with insufficient government services. They pointed out that much of Uganda’s national debt, which is nearing Shs 100 trillion, is mismanaged by officials in Museveni’s administration.

Calls to Action for the Canadian Government:

The demonstrators urged the Canadian government to take several decisive measures:

• Impose Sanctions: Implement asset freezes and travel restrictions on Ugandan officials involved in human rights abuses.
• Support Civil Society: Boost funding to Ugandan civil society groups working towards human rights and democratic governance.
• Demand Electoral Reforms: Promote fair and transparent elections through international monitoring and reforms.
• Investigate Eastern Congo Involvement: Look into Museveni’s role in the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.
• Protect Freedom of Expression: Encourage the repeal of laws that curb civil liberties and ensure freedom of speech.
• Secure Release of Political Prisoners: Call for the immediate release of all political prisoners and victims of forced disappearances.
• End Military Trials: Stop the trial of civilians in military courts and ensure proper legal representation.

The demonstrators highlighted the potential for Canada to use its economic influence—stemming from significant imports from Uganda valued at over $32 million—to press for improvements in human rights and governance.

The event also shed light on Uganda’s role in hosting nearly 1.6 million refugees and the alleged exploitation of this crisis by General Museveni for financial gains in eastern Congo.

The NUP Diaspora Ottawa Chapter called on the Canadian government to act swiftly to support democracy, halt sponsorship of the dictatorship, and protect human rights in Uganda.

Dr. Daniel Kawuma, leader of the NUP Diaspora team, emphasized the community’s commitment to these causes and urged for immediate international action to address these critical issues.