Uganda: concerned by mounting violence against civilians, UN official urges protection
In a report released today, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour urged the Government of Uganda to curb violence and human rights abuses voiced concern over escalating violence against civilians in Karamoja in the north-east of the country, where almost 70 people have been killed since last November.
In a report released today, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour urged the Government of Uganda to curb violence and human rights abuses voiced concern over escalating violence against civilians in Karamoja in the north-east of the country, where almost 70 people have been killed since last November.
Between 16 November 2006 and 31 March 2007, “the indiscriminate and excessive use of force” by Government forces, known as UPDF, has lead to the deaths of at least 69 civilians, including women and children, as well as 10 cases of torture, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment, the High Commissioner's office (OHCHR) said in a statement released in Geneva. Additionally, 400 cattle and many traditional homesteads, or manyattas, have been destroyed in Karamoja.
The High Commissioner also expressed serious concern over a “climate of fear and insecurity” in the area where armed Karimojong have reportedly killed seven UPDF soldiers, eight civilians and almost 300 cattle.
Ms. Arbour, who issued a report last November calling on Uganda to end a forced disarmament exercise, deplored the failure of the Government to implement her previous recommendations.
Allegations of human rights violations and criminal acts have persisted since the strategy was launched last May.
“I call on the Government of Uganda to respect its obligations to protect the human rights of all individuals under its jurisdiction at all times,” Ms. Arbour said, appealing for an end to the indiscriminate and excessive use of force against men, women and children.
The High Commissioner added that the country must also “take all necessary measures, including reviewing the ongoing disarmament process, to prevent any further human rights violations in Karamoja,” as well as implementing sustainable development initiatives to bring stability to the region.
She also stressed that instead of pursuing a solely military response, the Government should create civilian mechanisms for the legal arrest, detention, prosecution and punishment of armed Karimojong who commit crimes.