Former National Resistance Movement (NRM) vice chairperson Captain Mike Mukula has criticised Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) chairperson Mariam Wangadya over her recent remarks questioning President Yoweri Museveni’s approach to appointments within the commission.
Wangadya had raised concerns that the manner in which appointments are handled could undermine the UHRC’s independence and effectiveness, triggering debate over the relationship between the executive and constitutional oversight bodies.
In response, Mukula faulted her decision to air the concerns publicly, arguing that her conduct fell short of the standards expected of a senior constitutional office holder.
“I normally choose not to comment on certain topics or posts. However, the remarks attributed to the Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission were uncalled for and far below the standard expected of such an office,” Mukula said.
He defended the President’s constitutional mandate in appointing members to the commission, maintaining that the process is lawful and should not be portrayed as interference.
According to Mukula, any concerns regarding the appointments should have been addressed through established government channels rather than public statements.
“If she had concerns, there were proper channels: write to him directly, seek an appointment, engage the supervising minister, or raise the matter through the Vice President or Prime Minister,” he stated.
Mukula further criticised what he described as an inappropriate tone in Wangadya’s remarks, warning that such expressions risk undermining the dignity of public office.
“Public anger and vitriol do not replace institutional discipline,” he added, stressing the need for restraint among leaders in sensitive positions.
Wangadya’s initial comments have, however, continued to draw attention from governance and human rights observers, some of whom argue that raising concerns publicly can strengthen accountability and transparency within state institutions.