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The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has uncovered a range of human rights concerns in Masaka, including severe pressure on prison facilities, allegations of torture in police custody, discrimination against people living with HIV and difficulties in protecting children who come into conflict with the law.
The concerns emerged during a UHRC inspection of Masaka Central Government Prison conducted through the Commission’s Masaka Regional Office. The exercise is part of ongoing efforts by the Commission to monitor detention conditions, assess the treatment of prisoners and engage institutions responsible for upholding human rights.
The inspection team was led by Commissioner Hon. Shifrah Lukwago, representing UHRC Chairperson Hon. Mariam Wangadya. She was joined by Commissioners Hon. Crispin Kaheru and Hon. Simeo Muwanga Nsubuga, Director of Regional Services Ms. Sarah Nakhumitsa, Regional Head Ms. Justin Nambi Kasujja and other UHRC officials.
During discussions with the Commission, Regional Prisons Commander ASP Phelix Mugasa attributed part of the congestion at Masaka Prison to inmates transferred from Lwengo District. He explained that although Lwengo has a prison facility, the district lacks a High Court, forcing prisoners facing serious charges, including capital offences, to be transferred to Masaka while awaiting committal.
The Commission also heard disturbing allegations from some inmates concerning their treatment while in police custody. Some reportedly claimed that their fingernails were pulled out during interrogation, allegations that raise questions about the treatment of suspects and the need for accountability within the criminal justice system.
Beyond the prison, UHRC officials raised concerns about alleged discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS in employment. Regional Head Ms. Justin Nambi Kasujja cited Oil Palm Uganda Limited, alleging that prospective employees are tested for HIV and that those found to be positive are denied employment, an issue the Commission identified as a human rights concern requiring attention.
The inspection further exposed challenges affecting children in conflict with the law, with the region reportedly lacking a dedicated remand home. According to Nambi, juveniles are sometimes transported to facilities in Naguru, Kampala, or Kampiringisa in Mpigi District, while inadequate police facilitation makes their transportation and handling more difficult.
Nambi also alleged that some police officers may alter the recorded ages of juveniles, increasing them so that children can be placed in adult detention cells when juvenile facilities are unavailable. The concerns have given UHRC several issues to follow up with the relevant authorities as it continues monitoring human rights conditions and seeking improvements in the treatment of prisoners, suspects, children and other vulnerable groups in the Masaka region.
