The Ugandan people turned out to vote in multiparty national elections on 14 January despite an environment of intimidation and fear. The US State Department expressed concern about the credible reports of security force violence during the pre-election period and election irregularities during the polls.
They have urged independent, credible, impartial, and thorough investigations into these reports and that those responsible be held accountable. They have condemned the continuing attacks on political candidates and urged the government to respect their human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the freedom of expression.They are gravely concerned by harassment of and continued threats to civil society, noting the continued nationwide shutdown of the Internet and have called for its immediate restoration along with that of social media services.
A spokesman for the Department has urged all parties to reject violence and to use constitutional and legal means to address complaints, calling upon the Government of Uganda to respect freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly, and to hold accountable members of the security forces responsible for violence and abuses. He reiterated the Department’s intention to pursue action against those responsible for the undermining of democracy and human rights in Uganda.
