Uganda’s Justice Minister Norbert Mao Unveils Human Rights Committee Amid Rising Abuses

Kampala, Uganda | THE BLACK EXAMINER | Norbert Mao, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, has disclosed the establishment of a cabinet standing committee on human rights in response to the escalating complaints of human rights abuses in the country. Mao, who chairs the committee, outlined its composition, including ministers responsible for defense, internal affairs, gender labor, and social development, among others.

Speaking at the 5th Business and Human Rights Symposium at the Sheraton Hotel, Mao announced that the committee’s initial task is to formulate a national plan of action. Emphasizing the existence of due process in Uganda, he encouraged human rights defenders to persist in advocating for the less privileged.

Minister Mao issued a warning to government officials and agents, stating that there will be no legal support from the Attorney General’s office for those violating human rights. Previously, government officials received legal representation from this office, but Mao asserted that this practice will cease.

Mariam Wangadya, Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission, highlighted the importance of protecting and promoting businesses nationwide while urging businesses to respect human rights in their operations. She explained the concept of Business and Human Rights, emphasizing businesses’ responsibility to respect and fulfill human rights.

Wangadya outlined Uganda’s internal and external mechanisms for implementing business and human rights guidelines, including laws, policies, the national action plan, Vision 2040, and institutions like the Uganda Human Rights Commission. The five-year national action plan prioritizes issues such as sustainable land and natural resource use, environmental concerns, labor rights, revenue transparency, tax exemptions and corruption, social service delivery by private sectors, consumer protection, and access to remedy for vulnerable and marginalized individuals.

Despite the presence of these mechanisms, Wangadya acknowledged the negative impact of businesses on human rights enjoyment, citing issues such as underpayment, child labor, compensation disputes, land conflicts, displacement of people, environmental pollution, and violation of cultural rights. She specifically emphasized the vulnerability of groups like women, poor children, and persons with disabilities.

Wangadya called for adequate funding for the commission and emphasized the need for ongoing cooperation and collaboration among government agencies and stakeholders committed to enforcing human rights in business operations.