Gov’t Asked to Observe Human Rights While Fighting Covid19

Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has asked government, individuals and all agencies to ensure that they don’t suppress other people’s freedom under the guise of preventing the COVID 19 disease.

In a statement released on Wednesday by Acting chairperson Katebalirwe Amooti, he noted that while Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights provides for limitation of human rights for purposes of public order, public health, public security and public morality, this must be done on substantial grounds.

“Nevertheless, public interest does not permit political persecution, detention without trial and any limitation beyond what is acceptable and demonstrably justifiable in a free and democratic society,” he said.

The commission applauded security agencies in Uganda for enforcing presidential guidelines but advised them to always compliant with human rights.

“Government should pay special attention to the protection of the rights of the most vulnerable persons in all the measures taken with the aim of addressing the challenges associated with COVID-19, by implementing a human rights based approach.”

For those who are in self and institutional quarantine, the commission sked them to follow the Ministry of Health guidelines in order to avoid compromising other people’s health.