Africana Periodical Literature 
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| Title: | National Human Rights Institutions under Fire: The Uganda Rights Commission on the Brink |
| Author: | Makubuya, Apollo N. |
| Year: | 2004 |
| Periodical: | East African Journal of Peace and Human Rights |
| Volume: | 10 |
| Issue: | 1 |
| Pages: | 78-99 |
| Language: | English |
| Geographic term: | Uganda |
| Subjects: | constitutional reform human rights Law, Human Rights and Violence |
| Abstract: | The Cabinet of Uganda proposes to abolish the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) as part of constitutional reforms in the country. The rationale offered for this controversial move is to cut costs. It is proposed that the functions of the UHRC be transferred to the Inspectorate of Government (IG). The author argues that the cabinet's proposals to abolish the UHRC and transfer its functions to the IG are unjustified and should not be adopted. This is because they present a risk for the country to regress in the respect for and promotion of human rights. Additionally, the author highlights a growing tendency for the executive arm of government to encroach on the space and powers of the legislature and the judiciary. There is no doubt that this tendency jeopardizes prospects of good governance and the protection of human rights in the country. In this respect, the author advocates for governance based on mutual respect by the three arms of government and full accountability. The cabinet's proposals are oblivious to Uganda's human rights and constitutional history as well as inconsistent with the country's obligations under international human rights law and practice. While recognizing the achievements made by the UHRC in the last seven years, the author also points out some of its weaknesses. However, in spite of its limitations, the UHRC has an important task ahead and needs to be supported by all players including the State, civil society and the international community. Notes, ref. [ASC Leiden abstract] |