By Hanifah, News Editor – Oct 31, 2023
In a passionate and urgent plea, prominent human rights activist Clinton Mirrors is calling on the International Human Rights Watch to intervene and press the international community to exert pressure on the Ugandan government. The aim is to put an end to the persistent human rights violations committed by security operatives under the orders of President Yoweri Museveni. The violations have caused immense suffering and loss of life, necessitating a global response.
One of the most heart-rending aspects of this crisis is the plight of the families of missing persons. According to psychologists, these families are experiencing what is known as “ambiguous loss.” In this painful situation, they are unable to engage in the traditional grieving process because there are no remains to mourn or bury. Despite the agony, they cannot completely relinquish hope of being reunited with their missing loved ones.
These stories represent only a fraction of the devastating impact of human rights abuses in Uganda. Activists, led by Clinton Mirrors, are imploring the international community to take action. They argue that it is imperative to ensure accountability for the countless lives lost due to these alleged rights violations. The Ugandan government, they contend, must be held responsible for the actions of its security forces.
Critics have cited the failures of the Uganda Human Rights Commission in holding the government accountable for the alleged kidnappings, killings, and disappearances of opposition leaders and supporters. The lack of accountability in these cases has fueled ongoing unrest and drawn international attention to the dire situation in Uganda.
To the world, and particularly to the people of Uganda, Clinton Mirrors sends a clear message: the time for action is now. The international community must unite to support the quest for justice and freedom in Uganda. The suffering must end, and those responsible for human rights violations must be brought to justice.
Security forces in Uganda are also called upon to exercise vigilance when receiving orders that may lead to the torture or harm of Ugandans. It is the duty of these institutions to protect and serve the citizens, and this includes respecting human rights and the rule of law.
Lastly, Ugandans are urged to demand the immediate release of all political prisoners. The unjust detention of political activists undermines the democratic values that are crucial for the country’s progress and stability.
In a world where human rights and freedom are cherished, it is our collective responsibility to stand with the people of Uganda in their pursuit of justice. The call for action is clear, and the time for change is now.