Law Society moves to drag individual police officers to court for disrupting peaceful assemblies

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has expressed concerns over the persistent and unlawful interference by the Uganda Police in citizens' rights to peacefully assemble and demonstrate.

ULS President, Bernard Oundo, emphasized that these actions directly violate the Constitution of Uganda, which guarantees these fundamental rights.

"Freedom of assembly and peaceful demonstration are guaranteed fundamental rights under the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, 1995. These are essential tools for building a vibrant, free, and democratic society," Oundo stated.

Recent incidents have heightened these concerns. On August 2, 2024, medical interns were blocked by security officials as they attempted to demonstrate at the Ministry of Health Headquarters, demanding deployment at training facilities.

Additionally, members of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Katonga faction were arrested by police while attempting to deliver a protest note to the Kenya High Commission regarding the arrest of their colleagues in Kenya. Journalists covering the event were also reportedly manhandled by police.

"These incidents are just a few examples of the habitual interference by the Uganda Police Force in civic gatherings, protests, or demonstrations," Oundo stated. "The Constitution guarantees the right to 'assemble and demonstrate peacefully and unarmed,' yet these rights are under sustained attack."

The ULS also criticized the police's reliance on provisions of the Public Order Management Act, 2013, which has been declared unconstitutional by the courts for unreasonably limiting the right to assemble and demonstrate.

The society urged the police to uphold the rule of law and protect citizens' rights.

"The courts have upheld these fundamental rights in various decisions. They are inherent and are not merely permitted by the state or police. The police have a duty to ensure that demonstrations are peaceful," Oundo added.

In response to these violations, the ULS vowed to take legal action against any police officers found to have deliberately violated citizens' rights. The Society also called on the public to avoid violence during demonstrations and encouraged respect for law enforcement officers.

"The Uganda Police must investigate and hold accountable officers who arbitrarily curtail the right to peaceful assembly," Oundo warned. "ULS will not hesitate to take legal action in defense of these constitutional rights."

The ULS reiterated its commitment to promoting the rule of law, human rights, and good governance in Uganda, urging both the government and citizens to uphold these values.