The United Nations has condemned what it describes as an escalating crackdown on political opposition and the media in Uganda as the country approaches next month’s general election.
According to the UN Human Rights Office, credible reports show that more than 550 people have been arrested and detained since the beginning of the year. Those detained include members and supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP), the main opposition party led by presidential candidate Bobi Wine.
“We deplore the intensifying crackdown on the opposition and media in Uganda ahead of next month’s general election,” said Ravina Shamdasan, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). She described the situation as “deeply regrettable,” noting that the campaign period has again been marred by arbitrary arrests, detentions, excessive use of force against opposition figures, and undue restrictions on press freedom.
Over the past year, reports of arrests, enforced disappearances, torture, and other mistreatment targeting opposition supporters and activists have continued to rise. The OHCHR said security forces have allegedly used unmarked vans commonly referred to as “drones” to transport detainees to unofficial “safe houses,” where they are held incommunicado.
The agency also noted the deployment of heavily armed security personnel at venues scheduled to host NUP rallies.
Calling for an immediate end to what it described as a pattern of repression, the OHCHR urged Ugandan authorities to cease using such tactics and to conduct impartial investigations into allegations of enforced disappearance, arbitrary detention, and torture. Those responsible, it said, must be held accountable.
The UN also demanded the release of all detainees and insisted that Ugandans be allowed to “fully and peacefully exercise their right to participate” in public life. The statement further criticized restrictions on press freedom, citing cases in which journalists had their accreditation withdrawn after critical reporting.
The election, set for 15 January, will see 81-year-old President Yoweri Museveni seeking to extend his four decades in power.
