Opposition Leader Demands Urgent Parliamentary Recall Over Human Rights Crisis
Kampala, Uganda – Leader of the Opposition Joel B. Ssenyonyi has petitioned Speaker Jacob Oboth-Oboth to urgently reconvene Parliament to address what he describes as an alarming escalation of human rights violations and a growing disregard for the rule of law in the country .
In a formal letter dated June 17, 2026, Ssenyonyi warned that waiting until Parliament’s scheduled resumption on July 7, 2026, presents a “significant risk” of further unchecked abuses . He noted that the violations he previously raised on the Floor of the House during the 4th sitting of the 12th Parliament have not abated but are, in fact, escalating .
“The continued absence of parliamentary intervention and oversight could create an environment in which further violations occur unchecked, thereby exposing more Ugandans to potential abuses and undermining public confidence in the rule of law and constitutional governance.” — Leader of Opposition Joel B. Ssenyonyi
Ssenyonyi’s request builds on concerns initially raised during the previous parliamentary sitting, where the Vice President directed the Minister for Security to return with a statement addressing allegations of abductions, arbitrary arrests, and excessive force by security agencies . Despite a reminder from the Government Chief Whip, that commitment remains outstanding .
The Opposition Leader specifically highlighted the recent arrest of former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago by security operatives . He cited the case of Christopher Godi (King Zara), the reported military raid on Kawempe North MP Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola’s home, the continued detention of Dr. Kizza Besigye, and the abduction of Rev. Fr. Deusdedit Ssekabira of Masaka Diocese .
In a rare show of unity, opposition leaders from across the political divide have condemned the growing wave of violations . Constitutional lawyers warn that the apparent silence of oversight bodies and the targeting of defence lawyers undermines constitutional governance and citizens’ right to a fair hearing .
Ssenyonyi invoked Articles 79, 90, and 94 of the Constitution, which empower Parliament to scrutinize government agencies and demand accountability . He argued that Parliament must exercise its oversight function to reassure the nation of its commitment to protecting the rights and freedoms of all citizens.
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