Eron Kiiza: Ugandan Civilian Trials & Military Courts
Ugandan Human Rights Lawyer Eron Kiiza on Torture, Intimidation, and the Fight for Dissent
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Eron Kiiza, a prominent human rights lawyer in Uganda, recently faced unlawful detention and a controversial conviction that has deeply impacted his life and work. This article explores the personal toll of his experience, the chilling effect on dissenting voices in Uganda, and what support is needed for human rights defenders (HRDs) on the frontlines.
The personal Cost of Defending Human Rights
“It slowed me down,” Kiiza reflects, describing the impact of his recent ordeal. The 88 days of unlawful detention were a stark violation of his professional privilege – the right and duty to provide legal counsel to his clients, including those facing unconstitutional trials before military tribunals.
The experience was brutal. Kiiza endured violent military torture, leaving both visible and invisible scars. While the physical wounds have healed, the mental trauma persists, and the lost time remains irretrievable. “The preposterous ordeal entailed violent military torture that left me with both mental and physical scars,” he states.The repercussions extended beyond Kiiza himself. His arrest, summary conviction, disproportionate sentencing, and illegal detention instilled fear within his legal team. “My violent arrest…scared some members of our legal team. The team immediately reduced by half and some of the lawyers who fled…have never returned.” This highlights the immense pressure faced by those who dare to challenge the status quo in Uganda.
The Weaponization of Military Tribunals
Uganda has a documented history of civilians being tried in military courts, despite rulings affirming this practice is unconstitutional. Kiiza explains the implications: “There are court rulings in Uganda that say that civilians shouldn’t be tried in military courts. And yet, you and many othre civilians have experienced exactly that.”
This practice serves as a tool for President Yoweri Museveni to silence dissent. “He feels he cannot rule without the ability to intimidate people with the military and military tribunals that are biased, unfair, not appropriate and without the constitutional mandate to handle civilian trials.” The use of military tribunals creates a climate of fear, discouraging critical voices and undermining the rule of law.
The chilling effect is undeniable. “No one fancies time in a military tribunal. Some critics will shut up. The law has a severe chilling and intimidating effect. It is especially aimed at Museveni’s political foes.” This systematic intimidation represents a grave threat to freedom of expression and political participation in Uganda.
Strengthening Support for Human Rights Defenders in Uganda and Beyond
Given the deteriorating human rights situation in Uganda – as documented by organizations like Amnesty International – Kiiza emphasizes the urgent need for increased international support for HRDs.
“I want stronger international solidarity, more support for frontline human rights defenders (HRDs) to mitigate against the retreating of partners like USAID, and Democratic Governance fund.” This support should encompass capacity building, mentorship programs, exchange opportunities, and robust protection mechanisms.
Kiiza also stresses the importance of regional collaboration. “I hope frontline human rights defenders in East africa and the Great Lakes region can know each other more, work together more and support each other more.” A united front is crucial to effectively address the challenges faced by HRDs across the region.
Take Urgent Action: Demand Justice for Eron Kiiza
The international community must stand in solidarity with Eron Kiiza and all HRDs facing persecution in Uganda. Call on Uganda to quash Eron Kiiza’s conviction. His case is emblematic of the broader struggle for human rights and democratic values in the country.