Uganda's Human Rights Organisation Shut Down Ahead of Election

Days before Uganda's recent election, the government ordered the shutdown of Chapter Four Uganda, a human rights organisation advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. The National Bureau for Non-Governmental Organisations, part of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, suspended the organisation's operating permit, citing "intelligence information" that claimed Chapter Four was involved in activities deemed "prejudicial to the security and laws of Uganda." This action occurred amidst a politically charged atmosphere, as incumbent President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, secured a victory with 72% of the vote. The election was marred by allegations of violence and electoral fraud from Museveni's challenger, Bobi Wine.

Human rights organisation ordered to shut down days before election

The suspension of Chapter Four Uganda is particularly concerning given the backdrop of the Anti-Homosexuality Act, which was enacted in 2023. This legislation is one of the most stringent anti-LGBTQ+ laws globally, imposing severe penalties for same-sex sexual acts and criminalizing discussions about queer topics. Under this law, homosexuality can lead to life imprisonment, while the new offence of "aggravated homosexuality" carries the death penalty for specific circumstances, including sexual acts involving disabled individuals or those living with HIV.

Human rights organisation ordered to shut down days before election

In response to the suspension, Chapter Four Uganda expressed its concern, describing the government's actions as unjustified and based on vague allegations. The organisation stated, "We consider this suspension unjustified and are pursuing all available administrative and legal measures to restore our operational status as soon as possible." They emphasized their commitment to collaborating with government authorities to uphold the principles enshrined in Uganda's 1995 Constitution.

Human rights organisation ordered to shut down days before election

Kechukwu Uzoma, a senior staff attorney at the Kennedy Human Rights Center, condemned the government's actions, stating, "The weaponisation of vague laws and attacks on the right to freedom of association during electoral periods directly violate the right to vote." Uzoma called for immediate action from stakeholders, including the African Union, to address these repressive measures that undermine electoral integrity and democracy.

Human rights organisation ordered to shut down days before election

The crackdown on Chapter Four Uganda and other human rights organisations poses significant risks for LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda, who already face heightened dangers due to the stringent Anti-Homosexuality Act. The suspension of these organisations not only limits advocacy efforts but also raises concerns about the broader implications for civil liberties and human rights in the country.

Human rights organisation ordered to shut down days before election

• “The suspension is based on vague allegations that we engaged in activities that are prejudicial to the security and laws of Uganda.” — Chapter Four Uganda

Human rights organisation ordered to shut down days before election

• “Condemning the suspension of Chapter Four’s permit, Kechukwu Uzoma, senior staff attorney at the Kennedy Human Rights Center, said: “The weaponisation of vague laws and attacks on the right to freedom of association during electoral periods directly violate the right to vote.” — Kechukwu Uzoma, Senior Staff Attorney, Kennedy Human Rights Center

Human rights organisation ordered to shut down days before election