Why The US Slammed Senior Uganda Police Officers With Sanctions

Why The US Slammed Senior Uganda Police Officers With SanctionWo

By Our Writer

KAMPALA

THE Ugandan government is recovering from news of the US Department of State’s new sanctions against senior police officers with the foreign ministry warning that American meddling will not be entertained.

The Ugandan foreign affairs ministry told Media Thursday that too much meddling of the US into Ugandan affairs is menacing.

Earlier before the US Department of State designated four members of the Uganda Police Force (UPF) for their roles in gross violations of human rights, including torture and cruel treatment.

The designated officers are Bob Kagarura, former Wamala Regional Police Commander; Alex Mwine, former District Police Commander for Mitanya District; Elly Womanya, former Senior Commissioner and Deputy Director of the UPF’s Criminal Investigations Division; and Hamdani Twesigye, former Deputy Inspector of Police assigned to the Special Investigations Unit (SIU).

As a result of this designation, these individuals, along with their immediate family members, are now generally ineligible for entry into the United States.

This decision follows credible reports documenting the officers’ involvement in human rights abuses, supported by Ugandan civil court documents, investigations by civil society organizations, and independent journalistic inquiries.

By publicly designating these individuals, the United States underscores its commitment to advancing human rights for all Ugandans and holding accountable those responsible for violations.

In a statement, a State Department spokesperson emphasized, “These actions reflect our ongoing efforts to support human rights and promote accountability for those who commit abuses. The United States stands firmly with the people of Uganda in their pursuit of justice.”

Human rights groups have welcomed the designation, viewing it as a critical step towards addressing systemic issues within the Ugandan police force.

Advocacy organisations have long highlighted the need for reform and accountability in the UPF, particularly regarding allegations of torture and other forms of inhumane treatment.

The US government’s action serves as a reminder of the international community’s responsibility to address human rights violations and support the rule of law.