MP Kyagulanyi’s family petitions human rights body over ‘arbitrary’ detention

The family of incarcerated Kyadondo East Member of Parliament Robert Kyagulanyi also known as Bobi Wine has petitioned the Uganda Human Rights Commission over detention of the legislator.

Over 30 people including legislators Kyagulanyi, Gerald Karuhanga, Francis Zaake, Paul Mwiru and Kassiano Wadri were arrested following chaos that erupted on Monday in Arua town that culminated into the alleged stoning of President Museveni’s convoy.

Government on Wednesday said Kyagulanyi would be arraigned before the General Court Martial in Gulu after allegedly being found with two SMG rifles.

On Thursday, the singer cum MP’s family through a group of lawyers led by Ladislaus Rwakafuuzi and Eron Kiiza stormed the commission headquarters in Kampala to present their oral petition.

“We have been privy to torture pictures and unlawful arrests by security to a number of people including Kyagulanyi. We think these acts by the state are arbitrary and a violation of fundamental human rights,”Rwakafuuzi told the commission on Thursday.

“The Uganda Human Rights Commission is the bridge between the people and the state. We demand answers from you about the state of Kyagulanyi.”

The family explained that since his arrest, they have not been allowed to access the legislator and that neither has he been allowed a lawyer or personal doctor.

In response, the director in charge of complaints, investigations and legal services in the Uganda Human Rights Commission, Ida Nakiganda told the family that all their complaints would be looked into and addressed accordingly.

“We are aware of the plight of the family and it is a matter of concern. A suspect has his rights and we shall make sure they are respected,” Nakiganda said.

She said that the body is mandated to investigate complaints in regards violation of human rights, adding they would not rest until Kyagulanyi’s issue has been addressed.

“We shall engage the concerned party (UPDF) so that we are allowed to see him and find out how he is to see the situation is addressed.”

Kyagulanyi was on Thursday afternoon charged with unlawful possession of arms and ammunition according to a statement from the army.

“Consequently, Hon Kyagulanyi has today been arraigned before the General Court Martial in Gulu and charged under Section 119 (1) (h) of the UPDF Act, 2005 on accounts of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition,”Brig. Karemire, the army spokesperson, said.

Only two of his lawyers were allowed in court on Thursday and according to Medard Sseggona, Kyagulanyi could neither talk, nor support himself while in court.

He was remanded to Makindye military barracks until August 23.