Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has defended the country’s human rights record, arguing that Uganda has a deep understanding of the consequences of rights violations and should not be subjected to external lectures.
Speaking amid ongoing scrutiny from international observers and rights groups, Tayebwa said Uganda’s historical experiences have shaped its approach to governance and civil liberties.
“We are a country that knows the repercussions of human rights violations. When it comes to human rights, no one can lecture us about them. We understand them better,” he stated.
His remarks come at a time when Uganda continues to face criticism over alleged arbitrary arrests, suppression of dissent, and the treatment of opposition figures.
International organisations and Western governments have repeatedly raised concerns about shrinking civic space in the country, particularly in the lead-up to and aftermath of elections.
However, Tayebwa dismissed some of these claims, suggesting that certain actors exaggerate concerns for personal or political gain.
He accused unnamed individuals of seeking foreign sympathy and financial support by portraying Uganda in a negative light.
“Some people prefer to run to the West, seeking sympathy and funding. Those who remain in Uganda and follow the law know that even if they are arrested, they will ultimately appear before a court of law,” he said.
The Deputy Speaker maintained that Uganda’s legal framework guarantees due process, emphasizing that arrests are conducted within the confines of the law and that suspects are accorded their day in court.
His comments reflect the government’s longstanding position that the rule of law is upheld despite criticism from both local and international rights advocates.