CRISIS AT UHRC! Wangadya’s Mysterious Absence Sparks Fresh Controversy Amid Corruption Investigations

Mariam Wangadya the Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) addressing the press during the release of the report on abductions. This was at the UHRC offices Kampala on January 19, 2023. Photo by Lawrence Mulondo

KAMPALA – A cloud of uncertainty continues to hang over the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) following the prolonged absence of its Chairperson, Mariam Wangadya, amid an ongoing Inspectorate of Government (IGG) investigation into allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and maladministration within the institution.

The latest development emerged after Wangadya issued an internal communication delegating her duties to Commissioner Lamex Omara Apitta while she remains away from office. However, concerns quickly surfaced after reports indicated that Omara is currently in Geneva, Switzerland, attending an International Labour Organisation (ILO) meeting in his capacity as a member of the Federation of Uganda Employers.

The situation has sparked questions among staff and commissioners about who is effectively steering the affairs of the constitutional body at a time when it faces one of its most significant governance challenges in recent years.

Sources within the Commission revealed that many employees had anticipated Wangadya’s return at the beginning of June following an earlier absence. Instead, they were met with another memo indicating she would remain away from office without specifying when she would return.

The lack of clarity has reportedly fueled anxiety among staff, with some commissioners expressing concern that key functions of the Commission have been disrupted. Certain tribunal proceedings, which require the participation of the Chairperson alongside commissioners, are said to have stalled, affecting the Commission’s ability to handle pending human rights complaints and related matters.

Insiders say routine operations have slowed considerably, with some commissioners alleging that important decisions remain pending due to the leadership vacuum.

The uncertainty comes against the backdrop of a high-profile IGG investigation launched earlier this year following complaints alleging financial mismanagement, abuse of office, procurement irregularities, and governance failures within the Commission.

In March, the Inspectorate of Government formally commenced investigations after receiving complaints from whistleblowers regarding the management of public funds and institutional processes at UHRC. Investigators were tasked with examining a range of allegations, including questions surrounding budget management, staff welfare, procurement practices, and decision-making procedures.

Among the issues reportedly under scrutiny are claims related to the management of National Social Security Fund (NSSF) contributions, the handling of supplementary budget allocations, and the establishment of expenditure lines under the Office of the Chairperson.

The investigation is also expected to review allegations concerning human resource practices, including staff promotions, transfers, recruitment procedures, and claims of low morale within the institution.

Procurement activities have similarly attracted attention, particularly regarding the acquisition and deployment of institutional assets, including generators and motor vehicles.

Observers say the ongoing probe could have far-reaching implications for one of Uganda’s key constitutional institutions, whose mandate includes promoting and protecting human rights.

Neither Wangadya nor the Commission’s leadership had publicly commented on the concerns surrounding her continued absence by press time.

As investigations continue, stakeholders say restoring confidence in the Commission will require transparency, accountability, and clear communication regarding both the leadership situation and the allegations under examination.

The findings of the Inspectorate of Government are expected to determine whether any laws, regulations, or public service procedures were violated and could shape the future direction of the Uganda Human Rights Commission.

Read Next Article