Uganda Questions US Sanctions on Officials Pending Court Verdicts

Summary:

• Uganda questions US sanctions on officials pending court judgments, citing principles of innocence until proven guilty.

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KAMPALA, (Examiner) – The Ugandan government has responded with skepticism to the recent US decision to impose sanctions on several current and former government officials, questioning the timing and justification behind the move. This response comes after the United States Department of State announced sanctions, prohibiting five officials from entering the US due to their alleged involvement in corruption or human rights violations.

Among those affected are high-profile figures such as Speaker of Parliament, Ms. Anita Among, former Minister of Karamoja Affairs, Ms. Mary Goretti Kitutu, former State Minister for Karamoja Affairs, Ms. Agness Nandutu, State Minister for Finance, Mr. Amos Lugoloobi, and former Deputy Chief of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, Lt Gen Peter Elwelu.

Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister for Information Communication Technology (ICT) and National Guidance, expressed concern over the sanctions, particularly questioning the decision to take action against individuals whose cases are still pending in court. He emphasized the principle of innocence until proven guilty, highlighting that in Uganda, individuals are considered innocent until a court verdict is reached.

In Dr. Baryomunsi’s view, the US government’s decision appears premature, especially since none of the officials, including Ms. Among, have been convicted by any court. He raised doubts about the basis on which the US labeled Ms. Among as corrupt, emphasizing the importance of due process and fairness in legal proceedings.

While the Attorney General, Mr. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, opted not to comment until formal communication is received from the US government, Dr. Baryomunsi indicated that the Ugandan government intends to handle the matter diplomatically through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Unfortunately, neither the sanctioned individuals nor officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were available for comment on this matter.