In a decisive move to promote accountability for human rights violations in Uganda, the U.S. Department of State announced today the designation of four members of the Uganda Police Force (UPF) for their involvement in gross violations of human rights, including torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.
The designated officials—Bob Kagarura, the then-Wamala Regional Police Commander; Alex Mwine, the former District Police Commander for Mitanya District; Elly Womanya, the former Senior Commissioner and Deputy Director of the UPF’s Criminal Investigations Division; and Hamdani Twesigye, the then-Deputy Inspector of Police assigned to the Special Investigations Unit (SIU)—are now generally ineligible for entry into the United States, along with their immediate family members.
This action stems from serious and credible reports detailing the involvement of Kagarura, Mwine, Womanya, and Twesigye in human rights abuses.
These findings have been substantiated by Ugandan civil court documents, civil society organizations, and independent journalists.
By publicly designating these individuals, the United States reaffirms its commitment to advancing the human rights of all Ugandans and holding accountable those responsible for violations.
The move has been welcomed by human rights advocates, who view it as a necessary step in the ongoing struggle against systemic abuse within the Ugandan law enforcement agencies. It signals a clear message that such actions will not go unpunished and emphasizes the need for reform within the UPF.
As Uganda continues to grapple with issues of police brutality and human rights abuses, this sanction may serve as a catalyst for broader discussions about the rule of law and the protection of citizens’ rights.
The international community will be watching closely to see how this development influences the landscape of human rights in Uganda moving forward.
