The United States sanctioned five current and former Ugandan officials on Thursday for their involvement in corrupt practices and human rights violations, making the individuals ineligible for entry into the US. The sanctioned officials include Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, former Minister of Karamoja Affairs Mary Goretti Kututu, former Minister of State for Karamoja Affairs Agnes Nandutu, and Minister of State for Finance Amos Lugolobi. The US Department of State claims these individuals “abused their public positions for their personal benefit at the expense of Ugandans.” Additionally, the spouses of Among, Kitutu, and Lugolobi were also sanctioned.
Former Deputy Chief of the Ugandan Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Peter Elwelu, was sanctioned for his “gross violations of human rights” related to a 2016 attack that resulted in over 100 deaths. The US Department of State emphasized the importance of accountability, stating that the US stands with Ugandans advocating for democratic principles and transparency in governance. Further details can be found here.
The UK imposed similar sanctions on Among, Kitutu, and Nandutu last month, including travel bans and asset freezes against these individuals. More about the UK’s action is available here.
Speaker of Parliament Anita Among called the US sanctions “politically motivated,” claiming she was being targeted for her stance on Uganda’s anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. Uganda’s Constitutional Court recently upheld a law imposing the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality,” known as the Anti-Homosexuality Act, which was signed into law by President Yoweri Museveni last May. For further reading, visit this link.
Human rights activists have pointed out other violations in Uganda, noting threats to privacy, expression, and association due to the country’s surveillance system. Opposition leaders and activists have faced harassment and threats for expressing anti-government views. Notably, opposition leader Bobi Wine welcomed the US sanctions, urging the global community to address the “impunity perpetuated by the Museveni regime.”
For further details on the recent sanctions and related commentary, please visit Jurist.