UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk on Thursday condemned the growing crackdown on fundamental freedoms in Uganda, raising concerns about the erosion of the rule of law in the country and increasing military involvement in civilian institutions, which contribute to a shrinking of civic space.

In commenting on the current state of domestic affairs within the country, Türk stated:

“I am appalled that the authorities are increasingly targeting any form of dissent, and deepening restrictions on the fundamental freedoms of all those living in Uganda…” He added that the authorities’ actions are fostering a climate of fear among citizens, which increases self-censorship and further restricts public debate, thereby deepening polarisation.

The UN reported that repression against opposition figures in Uganda has escalated since the general elections that were held on January 15. Based on information received by the UN Human Rights Office, at least 50 opposition figures, five human rights defenders, and five journalists have experienced various human rights violations, including enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, torture, and ill-treatment. The Human Rights Office has also stated that it had information about increased military involvement in the functions of civilian institutions, with some media outlets forced to close temporarily.

Furthermore, Türk criticised the promulgation of special legislation that targets civic space by imposing restrictions on engagement with civil society organizations and international funding, such as the Protection of Sovereignty Act enacted in May 2026. This bill monitors the political activity of foreign actors, regulations foreign funding, and establishes a registration system for any person deemed an “agent of a foreigner.” Rights organizations have previously criticized the Act for its broad provisions and for limiting freedom of speech and peaceful assembly.

Consequently, Volker Türk called on the government to abide by its obligations under the Ugandan constitution as well as international law, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. He also urged the government to uphold the separation of powers and the rule of law, and to leverage economic opportunities from Uganda’s resources with the support of international funding.

The human rights situation in Uganda has attracted global attention since the January 15, 2026 general elections, which were marked by social and political unrest, including an Internet shutdown, restrictions on freedom of assembly, and clashes between security forces and opposition supporters. The National Unity Platform, a Ugandan political party, rejected the election results, claiming irregularities during the election process. Additionally, in May 2026, Amnesty International reported an increase in restrictions imposed on journalists and media freedom in many countries across East and Southern Africa, including Uganda.