US sanctions Uganda's Speaker Anita Among, four others over human rights violation
Africa
By
Denis Omondi
| May 30, 2024
The US government has sanctioned Uganda’s Speaker Anita Annet Among alongside four other current and former ministers over their alleged involvement in corruption and gross violation of human rights.
The officials include Finance minister Amos Lugolobi and former ministers Goretti Kitutu, Agnes Nandutu and former Deputy Chief of Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces Peter Elwelu.
In a statement, the US Department of State says the five top state officials are responsible for oppressing society organisations.
“These individuals are responsible for, or complicit in, the repression of Ugandan members of political opposition groups, civil society organizers, and vulnerable communities in Uganda,’’ reads part of the statement from the US Department of State.
The US sanction against Speaker Among came hot on the heels of a similar decision taken by the UK government that prompted President Museveni to order an investigation on the allegations.
READ MORE
Ongoing labour unrests are early signs of an economy that's about to collapse
Trailers and weighbridges: The untold story
KTDA moves to restore order in tea bonus declarations
Madagascar tycoon to buy Zuku parent firm Wananchi Group
How container cash deposits are creating a problem for Kenyan traders
Gold rush: How illegal gallbladder trade threatens Lake Victoria fishers
Real estate posts high productivity as challenges hit wholesale, retail sectors
Agencies in fresh plan to market Kenyan coffee
AI-driven smart borders transform travel security
Fresh test for Ruto as IMF urges new tax policies to unlock loans
The UK government has linked Speaker Among to the ownership of a house in the United Kingdom, an assertion she has denied.
The Speaker is blaming her woes on a tough anti-homosexuality law which passed in the parliament amidst opposition from human rights groups and criticisms from the governments of US and UK.
Minister Lugolobi and the former ministers are accused of misappropriating public resources while the former military deputy chief Elwelu is said to have presided over extrajudicial killings of government critics including opposition members.
The sanctions include visa restrictions barring the officials from entering the US.
“Today’s actions reaffirm the U.S. commitment to support transparency in Uganda’s democratic processes, counter corruption globally, and address the broader culture of impunity that prevents all Ugandans from enjoying their human rights and fundamental freedoms,” said the US government.
- Education CS silent as teachers, lecturers threaten to strike
- The new sound of faith: How youth culture has redefined gospel music
- Why raising Gen Z kids is a tough balancing act for modern parents
- Arrest of two KQ staff by Congo military sparks diplomatic tiff