As Uganda prepares for the 2026 General Election, Gen Muhoozi warns against torture and urges security agencies to respect human rights when handling suspects. Civil Society Organisations and the Uganda Human Rights Commission have repeatedly accused some security personnel of abusing detainees, especially during periods of political tension.
During the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture on July 3 in Kampala, Gen Muhoozi warned against torture. He pointed out that certain security operatives contribute to the increase in abuse cases nationwide. Nevertheless, he assured the public that the government is actively working to stop these violations. Furthermore, he emphasized that President Museveni consistently condemns torture, basing his stance on protecting the dignity and rights of every Ugandan.
In his address, Gen Muhoozi warns against torture and called on all citizens—particularly security personnel—to obey the law and avoid abusing power. He stressed that peaceful elections require the effort of everyone, not just the security forces. “If we all do what we are supposed to do, we shall have free and peaceful elections,” he said. Additionally, he reminded the public about their rights and responsibilities under electoral laws.
Concerns over security officers’ conduct during elections have long existed. To address these, Gen Muhoozi warns against torture and reassured the public about ongoing training programs. The government is equipping security personnel with professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights ahead of the 2026 polls.
Julius Mucunguzi, the Electoral Commission spokesperson, reaffirmed the commission’s neutrality and commitment to fair elections. According to him, the EC acts as a referee, ensuring that Ugandans freely exercise their democratic rights. He stressed, “Elections are not a war or a do-or-die affair. They should be peaceful and inclusive. Torture has no place in our elections.”
A powerful testimony came from William Kyomya, a torture survivor abducted and brutally abused by security agents in 2018. He recounted receiving a call from an unknown person inviting him to meet. Trusting the caller, he went to a restaurant in Najjanankumbi, near Freedom City. Moments later, armed men—some in uniform, others in civilian clothes—arrested him without explanation. They handcuffed and beat him, then transported him to an undisclosed location.
Kyomya endured a five-hour journey while being beaten and exposed to harsh weather. Once detained, officers stripped him and locked him in a cell with others for four days without any interrogation. His torture began when they blindfolded him and stripped him to his underwear. The officers demanded information about guns linked to political killings. Over two weeks, they electrocuted, beat, and submerged him in water with electric wires. At times, he lost consciousness.
He spent a month enduring torture. Consequently, he came out deaf, struggling to walk without assistance. The emotional trauma was severe, and he lost reproductive function. Kyomya said, “Torture destroyed me—physically, mentally, and emotionally.”
His story highlights why Gen Muhoozi warns against torture and underscores the urgent need for security agencies to respect human rights. As Uganda approaches the 2026 election, his call challenges security personnel to uphold the law and protect every citizen’s dignity. Only by doing so can Uganda hold free, fair, and peaceful elections.
