By KT Reporter
The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has tipped communities in Agago District on justice, accountability, and the protection of human rights.
This was during a barraza held on Thursday in Geregere Sub-County.
During the dialogue, Fiona Opoka, the UHRC Regional Human Rights Officer, emphasised that the Commission is committed to ensuring that citizens understand their rights and that government institutions, especially security agencies, are held to account for any violations.
“This baraza is part of our fact-finding and education efforts,” Opoka said. “We must ensure that no one’s rights are abused, regardless of who is in power or uniform.” She cited illegal detentions by police as a persistent human rights concern. “Suspects must be granted bond within 48 hours of arrest. Any detention beyond that period is unconstitutional,” she noted.
Opoka also raised concerns about the rise in gender-based violence, particularly during the dry season when domestic disputes tend to increase. She advised couples to avoid confrontations that often lead to family breakdown and vulnerable children.
Paul Monga, a local executive secretary from Latinling Central Village said some parents try to settle defilement cases at the village level. Opoka warned that such practices are illegal and undermine the justice system.
Meanwhile, Francis Oyet, the Agago District Community Liaison Officer, echoed his concerns, reporting a sharp rise in serious crimes in the area, including 20 attempted suicide cases and several murders in recent months within the district.
Oyet urged residents to seek religious support during crises rather than resorting to violence or self-harm, which is against the law.
Among the disturbing cases he cited was a woman who reportedly murdered her child and buried the body under potato heaps, and a teenage boy who later killed both of his parents in the area.
Sabina Akidi, a resident, said the dialogue was an eye-opener and called for more community dialogues. She further blamed alcohol abuse and youth idleness for many of the crimes, including defilement and murder.
George Odong, Coordinator of Pader NGO Forum, urged the community to support victims of abuse and hold leaders accountable. He warned security forces to respect rights, especially during election periods.
According to the Annual Crime Report of 2024, there’s a 4.1% drop in reported crimes from 228,074 in 2023 to 218,715 in 2024. Despite this decline, challenges persist.
Recent data shows 90,663 cases reported, with many still under inquiry or dismissed. Theft, assault, domestic violence, and sex-related offences are the most common crimes-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
