By Ben Musanje
The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has admitted to closely monitoring the death of a young man, Mesach Okello, in Iganga, despite not receiving any formal complaints about the incident.
The incident occurred during a National Unity Platform (NUP) campaign activity at the Railway Grounds in Iganga Municipality, where Okello was reportedly shot by security personnel.
He tragically died on Thursday last week and was buried on Sunday in Buyende District. Okello, a Human Resource Management graduate who earned a living selling timber, is survived by six children and three wives.
Speaking at a joint press conference to mark International Human Rights Day 2025, UHRC’s Director of Complaints Investigations and Legal Services, Pauline Nansamba Mutumba, explained that while the Commission has yet to receive an official report regarding the death, it is actively following up on the case through its regional offices.
“We are aware of the incident concerning Mesach Okello, and while we have not received a formal complaint, our regional office in Jinja is already looking into the matter,” Nansamba said. “As part of our role, we are monitoring all incidents, especially those with human rights implications, and will take appropriate action where necessary.”
The death of Okello, which has sparked local outrage, is one of several incidents during the election period that the UHRC is closely tracking.
While the Commission’s mandate prevents it from investigating cases already before the courts, such as those involving arrests and detentions during the campaign trail, Nansamba emphasized that the UHRC still has a critical role in advising victims and the public on their rights.
For example, the recent wave of arrests in Mbarara, where dozens were detained following a violent incident involving the National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate, saw those arrested promptly charged in court.
Nansamba clarified that while the UHRC was unable to intervene directly in these ongoing legal cases, it had monitored the situation to ensure detainees were granted their legal rights, including access to legal counsel.
She urged citizens to actively engage with the Commission, particularly through its hotlines and mobile app, to report any human rights violations they experience or witness. “If your human rights are infringed upon, we encourage you to report it. We may not always be able to intervene in court cases, but we can provide guidance and direct you to the proper legal remedies.”
Samuel Herbert Nsubuga, Chief Executive Officer of the African Centre for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture Victims (ACTV), also spoke at the press conference, addressing the lack of formal complaints during this election period.
He noted that while ACTV had not yet received any victims for treatment, it is ready to support individuals who are referred by the UHRC or other civil society partners.
Nsubuga highlighted the importance of public awareness in knowing the available channels for reporting violations. “Many people still don’t know about the mechanisms available to them, such as Police Form 105, which can be used to report misconduct by law enforcement, or the Police Standards Unit (PSU) that addresses police abuses,” he said.
He also reiterated that despite some public disillusionment with the justice system, there are still viable pathways for holding perpetrators accountable.
Citing examples of police officers who faced disciplinary action for misconduct, Nsubuga encouraged the public to trust the system and use the available legal channels.
“The system can work if we use the tools available to us,” he concluded. “It’s important for the public to know that there are institutions, like the UHRC and ACTV, that are committed to holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring that victims receive the support they need.”
Both Nansamba and Nsubuga agreed that the lack of public trust in the justice system remains a significant challenge, especially in election periods when human rights abuses are more likely to occur.
However, they also stressed that civil society organizations and government bodies like the UHRC remain dedicated to addressing these issues and protecting the rights of all Ugandans. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
