Uganda descends into state of fear as trouble rocks country

Uganda is experiencing a growing climate of fear as increasing restrictions on fundamental freedoms leave opposition supporters, journalists, human rights defenders and civil society groups at heightened risk of abuse, according to the UN Human Rights Office.

Since the country’s general election in January, reports of enforced disappearances, torture, arbitrary arrests and other human rights violations have increased against people perceived to oppose the Government.

According to the Office of the Human Rights Commission (OHCR), at least 50 opposition leaders and supporters, five human rights defenders and five journalists have reportedly been subjected to abuses in recent months.

The UN also said authorities have relied on legal provisions that do not comply with international human rights law to detain critics, further contributing to an atmosphere of intimidation and fear.

Civil society under pressure

The crackdown has also extended to civil society.

Ten leading organisations have been suspended this year, while others have faced heightened scrutiny and harassment, further shrinking civic space and limiting independent voices.

“The actions of the authorities are creating a climate of fear that is increasing self-censorship, further stifling public debate and deepening polarization,” said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk.

His office warned that increasing military involvement in civilian institutions, combined with restrictions on freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, is eroding the rule of law and encouraging widespread self-censorship. 

As civic space continues to shrink, many people are becoming increasingly reluctant to speak out for fear of reprisals.

Call for action

“I call on the Government to abide by its obligations under international human rights law, the African Charter and the Ugandan Constitution to ensure a vibrant civil society where everyone can freely express their views and participate in public affairs” Mr. Türk added.

The UN also called on the authorities to address the country’s broader economic and social challenges through a human rights-based approach that promotes inclusion, accountability and equal opportunities for all Ugandans.

Crackdown

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk denounced the crackdown on dissent in Uganda, alongside a gradual erosion of the rule of law, increased military involvement in civilian institutions, and shrinking civic space – all of which are creating a climate of fear throughout the country.

“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,” said Türk. “Those who dare to speak out are silenced.”

Since the general elections on 15 January 2026, repression has increased against all those perceived to oppose the Government. According to information received by the UN Human Rights Office, since the elections, at least 50 opposition leaders and supporters, five human rights defenders and five journalists have been subjected to human rights violations.

These include instances of enforced disappearance, torture and ill-treatment, and arbitrary arrest or detention based on legal provisions which do not comply with international human rights law.

In addition, 10 leading civil society organisations have been suspended since January 2026, while others have been closely scrutinised and, at times, subjected to harassment.

The Office has also received information about increased military involvement in functions ordinarily carried out by civilian institutions. Some media outlets have been forced to close temporarily.

In May 2026, the Protection of Sovereignty Act was enacted, imposing extensive restrictions on international funding and foreign engagement with civil society organisations. The legislation includes severe penalties, including prison sentences of up to 10 years for violations.

“The actions of the authorities are creating a climate of fear that is increasing self-censorship, further stifling public debate and deepening polarisation,” said Türk.

“I call on the Government to abide by its obligations under international human rights law, the African Charter and the Ugandan Constitution to ensure a vibrant civil society where everyone can freely express their views and participate in public affairs,” he added.

The UN Human Rights Chief urged the Government to uphold the separation of powers and the rule of law, including by preventing military interference in civil institutions.

He also encouraged the leveraging of economic opportunities from the country’s resources and renewed international financial support to tackle structural issues and create a human rights-centred economy that upholds the fundamental rights of the Ugandan people.

The High Commissioner emphasised that his Office remains committed to supporting Uganda in preserving and reinvigorating respect for human rights.