The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) Chairperson, Mariam Wangadya, has emphasized the commission’s mandate to safeguard citizen’s rights particularly within detention facilities.

She made these remarks while delivering a lecture to prison officers undergoing Intermediate Command and Staff Course at the Prison Academy and Training School (PATS) on Thursday, February 27, 2025.

Wangadya highlighted the importance of the Human Rights Enforcement Act (HREA) of 2019, Chapter 4 of the Constitution, and the United Nations Mandela Rules in ensuring humane treatment of prisoners and accountability.

“In Chapter 4 of the Constitution Uganda’s Bill of Rights and the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, known as the Mandela Rules, upholds respect, non-discrimination, and the prohibition of torture,” Wangadya stated.

She elaborated on HREA’s role in addressing human rights violations, citing its command under Article 50 to provide remedies for abuses. However, she noted that certain provisions of the law remain argumentative.

’’Under Section 8, judges are required to suspend criminal trials if a suspect claims their rights have been violated. Additionally, Sections 10 and 11 impose personal liability on officers, potentially invalidating trials where basic rights, such as freedom from torture or slavery, are breached,’’ Wangadya explained.

She also emphasized the responsibilities of prison officers, who are tasked with rehabilitating criminals while providing appropriate, secure, safe, and humane custody.

Wangadya also highlighted the critical role of prison officers in rehabilitating offenders while ensuring their custody is secure, safe, and humane.

The Uganda Human Rights Commission established under Article 51 of Uganda’s constitution, remains dedicated to safeguarding the rights of all citizens and ensuring compliance with human rights standards in detention facilities.