KAMPALA, UGANDA — The head of the European Union Delegation to Uganda, Ambassador Jan Sadek, has voiced apprehension regarding increasing reports of human rights violations and extrajudicial actions perpetrated by security forces within the country.
During his address at the Europe Day event, Ambassador Sadek emphasized that the deployment of military force against civilians, seemingly without accountability, stands in direct opposition to the fundamental principles of the rule of law.
He stated that the delegation has been closely monitoring recent developments with growing concern.
“We have observed extrajudicial actions by security forces; arbitrary detentions and degrading treatment of political opponents and journalists; and an alarming militarisation of the political sphere, the use of military force against civilians, with apparent impunity, contradicts the principles of the rule of law,” he asserted.
Ambassador Sadek further added, “We are a Union that promotes multilateralism, rule of law, and human rights. We are not afraid to speak the truth – even when it is uncomfortable.”
The event was attended by Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao, the Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission, Mariam Wangadya, and former Prime Minister John Patrick Amama Mbabazi.
Recently, Mariam Wangadya directed Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of President Yoweri Museveni, to release Edward Sebuufu, also known as Eddie Mutwe and a bodyguard of Bobi Wine, from unlawful detention. Subsequently, Eddie Mutwe was presented before a Magistrate’s court. His legal representative, Magellan Kazibwe, alleged that Edward Sebuufu had been subjected to torture, including electrocution.
Human rights organizations have consistently accused Ugandan authorities of targeting opposition figures, particularly in the lead-up to the 2026 elections. Norbert Mao, in a statement issued on May 5th, condemned the alleged torture of Edward Sebuufu.
He argued that no citizen should face punishment outside of due legal processes and that presenting individuals who have been tortured in court undermines the pursuit of justice. “No citizen should be subjected to any form of punishment unless found guilty after due process in courts of law,” Mao stated.
Ambassador Sadek commended both Minister Mao and Chairperson Wangadya for their vocal stance against such intimidation. “We value the independence of the Judiciary and we call on all actors to ensure a calm, inclusive and credible process ahead of the elections in early 2026. The Ugandan people deserve no less,” Sadek affirmed.
EU-Uganda partnership
Despite these concerns, Ambassador Sadek highlighted the robust and expanding partnership between the EU and Uganda. He reported that bilateral trade reached a record high of 2 billion Euros (8 Trillion Ugandan Shillings) in the past year, with Uganda realizing a trade surplus of 500 million Euros.
“Ugandan exports to the EU have tripled since we began our regular Business Forums in 2020, and rose by 60% last year alone. That is a remarkable trend. And it shows that partnership pays off!,” he noted.
Ambassador Sadek attributed this growth to the EU’s predictable, tariff-free market access for Uganda, contrasting it with other partnerships where tariffs are applied and significant trade deficits exist.
“A balanced and rules-based trade relationship is in everyone’s interest – and the best way to ensure shared prosperity,” he emphasized. The EU remains the largest source of foreign direct investment in Uganda, accounting for nearly half of all inflows.
“Our companies – many of you are here tonight – believe in Uganda’s potential – in its people, in its markets, and in its future,” he stated.
Furthermore, he announced that through Team Europe and the Global Gateway initiative, the EU is investing over 170 million Euros in Uganda’s green transition. This includes grants and loans from the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the French Development Agency for the rehabilitation of the Nalubaale and Kiira hydropower dams. The EIB also has a promising pipeline of other strategic energy and infrastructure projects under consideration.
Ambassador Sadek acknowledged Uganda’s crucial role as a regional actor in a complex geopolitical landscape. “The EU recognises Uganda’s contribution to regional stability – through its deployments, including in the DRC and Somalia. The EU is a partner for peace and security!,” he concluded.
