Liberals have spoken out against Uganda’s elections on 15 January, as actors faced severe political repression. Opposition figures, journalists and civil society actors were targeted, with restrictions on civic spaces and democratic freedoms.
Following the recent events, Renew Europe strongly condemned the systematic repression in Uganda in a recent resolution adopted by the European Parliament.
Renew Europe shadow rapporteur for Uganda, Jan-Christoph Oetjen MEP (FDP, DE) condemned the repression:
“It is outrageous that soldiers, acting on direct orders from the government, raided the home of opposition leader Bobi Wine and assaulted his family. We must impose targeted sanctions against all those who order or support such acts of brutality and those who issue death threats, including the dictator Museveni and his son. We stand with Bobi Wine and the Ugandan opposition.”
Hilde Vautmans MEP (Anders, BE), Renew Europe coordinator in the European Parliament Committee on Foreign Affairs, added:
"Uganda’s post-election crackdown, from mass arrests and disappearances to the silencing of civil society, is a blatant assault on democracy. The authorities must end the persecution of opposition voices, ensure accountability for abuses, and respect fundamental freedoms, or risk consequences in their partnership with the European Union."
The European Parliament expressed particular concern over repeated attacks against opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine, and National Unity Platform members, the arbitrary suspension of civil society organisations and the prolonged detention of human rights defender Dr. Kizza Besigye.
Renew Europe has called for:
- Immediately cease harassment and judicial persecution of opposition figures
- End internet shutdowns and media restrictions
- Halt the use of military courts for civilians
- Undertake comprehensive electoral reforms to ensure the independence of democratic institutions.
The EU must review its cooperation with Uganda to ensure coherence with fundamental rights and democratic governance.