The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) Chairperson Mariam Wangadya, has resigned from her position as the committee chairperson.
In a letter dated July 6th to President Yoweri Museveni, Wangadya gives him notice of her resignation and thanks him for promoting and protecting human rights over the years.
“I hereby tender my resignation as Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission. I thank you for the opportunity to serve Uganda over the years in the promotion and protection of human rights” Wangadya stated.
Wangadya’s resignation comes barely a week after she strongly criticised Museveni over the calibre of appointments he makes to the Commission, accusing him of turning the institution into a dumping ground for failed politicians.
“I have concerns to my president. He has persistently shown us that he does not respect this institution, when I look at the people he appoints to this Commission, it appears he has turned the Commission into a dumping ground for failed politicians. Politicians who lose elections and run to him for appointments end up being appointed to this Commission” she said.
According to Wangadya, the appointments undermined the commission, with a broad constitutional mandate in the country.
“Chapter 4 of the Constitution is the biggest chapter. It contains the bill of rights, this Commission has the biggest mandate regarding the rights of Ugandans but the people you (president) appoint to this commission do not qualify. Mr. President, put respect in this commission”she said.
The appoints in question include commissioners; Simeo Nsubuga, Col. (Rtd) Steven Basaliza, and Jacklet Atuhaire Rwabukurukuru.
Wangadya’s term of office as chairperson was supposed to end in September next year.
