The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has raised a number of human rights concerns following an inspection of Masaka Central Government Prison, including overcrowding, allegations of torture, discrimination against people living with HIV and challenges in protecting children in conflict with the law.
The inspection was conducted under the UHRC Masaka Regional Office as part of the Commission’s efforts to assess the conditions of detention facilities and engage justice and security stakeholders on challenges affecting the protection and promotion of human rights in the region. The team was led by Commissioner Hon. Shifrah Lukwago on behalf of UHRC Chairperson Hon. Mariam Wangadya.Lukwago was accompanied by Commissioners Hon. Crispin Kaheru and Hon. Simeo Muwanga Nsubuga, Director of Regional Services Ms. Sarah Nakhumitsa, Masaka Regional Head Ms. Justin Nambi Kasujja and other UHRC staff.
During the engagement, Regional Prisons Commander ASP Phelix Mugasa explained that the absence of a High Court in Lwengo District was contributing to congestion at Masaka Prison.According to Mugasa, inmates from Lwengo, particularly those facing serious charges such as capital offences, are transferred to Masaka because they have to appear before the High Court. Although Lwengo has a prison facility, the lack of a High Court means some prisoners remain at Masaka while awaiting committal, adding pressure to the already limited space.The Commission also received allegations of torture from inmates, including claims that some suspects had their fingernails pulled out while undergoing interrogation in police custody.
The allegations are expected to form part of the issues examined by the UHRC as it assesses the treatment of suspects and prisoners and the conduct of institutions involved in the criminal justice process.During a separate engagement with prison staff, Kasujja highlighted other human rights concerns affecting the wider Masaka region. Among them was an allegation that Oil Palm Uganda Limited does not employ people living with HIV/AIDS, with prospective workers reportedly subjected to HIV testing and those who test positive allegedly denied employment.
The Commission was also informed about difficulties faced by juveniles who come into conflict with the law. Kasujja said the region lacks a remand home, forcing authorities to transport children to facilities such as Naguru in Kampala or Kampiringisa in Mpigi, while inadequate police facilitation makes the transportation process more difficult.
She further alleged that, in some cases, police officers may increase the recorded age of juveniles so they can be held in adult cells when appropriate facilities are unavailable. The concerns raised during the Masaka inspection have highlighted several areas requiring attention, with the UHRC expected to engage relevant authorities on prison congestion, alleged torture, HIV-related discrimination and the protection of children within the justice system.
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