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Concerns Raised over Democracy and Human Rights by parliament as Female MPs Face Arrest and Brutality by Police. Deputy speaker of parliament Hon Thomas Tayebwa wondered what kind of police officers such could and whether they are representing the image of government.

The female opposition MPs were arrested by the police outside the parliament gate on their way to the Ministry of Internal Affairs to protest the arrest of female MPs across the nation as they met with constituents to discuss various issues. Joyce Bagala (Mityana woman mp) Kaaya Christine Nakimwero (Kiboga district), Florence Kabugho(Kasese district) Betty Ethel Naluyima, (Wakiso) Joan Acom Alobo (Soroti) Asinansi Nyakato, (Hoima City) and Suzan Mugabi (Buvuma) were among the legislators that were detained. Others were Joan Kakande, Hanifa Nabukeera, Manjeri Kyebakutika (Jinja City), Hellen Nakimuli (Kalangala), Joan Kakande, and Joan Namutaawe (Masaka). They were later detained at Central Police Station after Police reportedly accused them of obstructing traffic flow and holding an unlawful assembly.

In his communication to the House, Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, wondered why the Police had to use so much force and brutality on the women as if they were ‘robots.’

“Police executed the drill in a manner that suggested they were apprehending terrorists. Many people have cuts and ripped clothing; how can you act so blatantly at the Parliamentary gate? This must change. I’m not sure if we are secure in this house. If our colleagues can be subjected to such treatment,” he remarked.

He wondered what kind of Police officers could do such and whether they were representing the image of government. “Who are these people working for? I don’t think these people are working to protect the image of this country. these people must be working for an invisible hand and aimed at bringing down government,” he added.

Mathias Mpuuga, the leader of the opposition in parliament, criticized the police officers’ behavior and requested that they be disciplined.

The arrest and detention of the female MPs in Uganda raises serious concerns about the state of democracy and human rights in the country. The use of excessive force and brutality by the police is unacceptable and must be condemned by all. It is important that the government ensures the safety and security of its elected officials and allows them to exercise their rights without fear of persecution. We hope that this incident will prompt a renewed commitment to upholding democratic values and respecting the rights of all citizens in Uganda.