Suspended roads safety officer Ronald Amanyire has criticized Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) chairperson Mariam Wangadya over her recent remarks describing the Commission as a “dumping ground for failed politicians,” saying the statement has worsened tensions within the institution.
Wangadya’s comments have triggered widespread debate, with some interpreting them as a bold critique of political appointments, while others say they undermine the credibility of the Commission.
Reacting to the remarks, Amanyire said the UHRC chairperson did not fully consider how her words would be received by key stakeholders, including government authorities, staff, and the public.
“She failed to anticipate how calling the Human Rights Commission a ‘dumping ground’ would be interpreted,” Amanyire said.
He argued that the statement reflected poor judgment, noting that concerns about the Commission should have been addressed through internal mechanisms rather than public statements.
“This was frustration expressed as a public outburst instead of being handled through proper institutional processes,” he added.
Amanyire also said the remarks risked creating divisions within UHRC, particularly among commissioners and staff who may feel targeted or undermined.
“Such statements show little regard for colleagues who would understandably feel demeaned or devalued,” he noted.
According to him, the fallout from the comments could weaken trust within the institution and complicate its operations, especially at a time when public confidence in governance bodies remains under scrutiny.
He warned that the situation may attract external interference in the Commission’s affairs, further affecting its independence.
“These developments risk damaging internal trust and could invite external actors into matters that should have been handled internally,” Amanyire said.
He described the remarks as “blunt and counterproductive,” arguing that they have placed the Commission in an avoidable crisis.
The controversy comes at a sensitive time, with UHRC already facing public attention over its role in addressing human rights concerns in Uganda.