By Ambrose Kweronda
www.mknewslink.com
In Mbarara
Security officials have been urged to ensure that all arrests are carried out in accordance with the Constitution and the laws of Uganda, with a warning that unlawful arrests undermine the rule of law and accountability.
The call was made yesterday by Odrek Rwabwogo, the Chairperson of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID), during a one-day workshop for journalists and local leaders from Western Uganda on Regional Aggregation Centres (RACs) and their role in driving Uganda’s export-led industrialization.
The workshop was held at Kamu Farm Country Resort in Nyakisharara, Mbarara City.
Rwabwogo said all Ugandans deserve to be treated in accordance with the law and that every arrest should follow the procedures provided for under the Constitution and other relevant laws.
He cautioned that individuals or authorities who disregard legal procedures while carrying out arrests could one day be held accountable for their actions.
He emphasized that no one should be arrested without lawful authority and due process. According to Rwabwogo, leaders who misuse their authority by acting outside the law may eventually be called upon to account for their actions, noting that the rule of law applies to everyone regardless of their position.
Rwabwogo also warned that Uganda should avoid repeating mistakes from its past, referring to periods in the country’s history when human rights violations and political violence occurred. He said leaders should exercise their powers within the limits of the law, adding that while some public officials may enjoy legal protections while in office, they can still be held accountable after leaving office if they are found to have violated the law.
He concluded by stressing that no one is above the law and that accountability is ultimately a matter of legal process and time.
Rwabwogo said every Ugandan has the right to freedom of expression and should not be arrested for speaking the truth or expressing lawful opinions.
He noted that legal action should only be taken where an individual is alleged to have broken the law, including through making false statements where provided for by law.
He added that arrests based on a person’s region, ethnicity, or for conduct that does not violate the law are unacceptable.
Rwabwogo further said he is documenting what he described as unlawful arrests in Uganda, adding that he keeps records of such cases, which he believes will be important for future accountability.