Urgent reforms needed for Police's living, working conditions - UHRC Report

Titled ‘Squeezing Water out of a Stone? Working and living conditions of the Uganda Police Force personnel and their implications on observance of human rights,’ the report was presented to the Rt. Hon. Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda by Mariam Wangadya, Chairperson of UHRC.

The study, initiated in 2019 and conducted in full cooperation with the UPF, aimed to address persistent human rights breaches by police personnel and explore the underlying causes. The findings reveal a dire situation, with police personnel enduring conditions that not only challenge their dignity but also their ability to uphold human rights standards.

One of the report’s most alarming findings is the deplorable state of housing for police personnel. Many live in dilapidated structures, with shared rooms partitioned by curtains or makeshift boards, some in buildings condemned and unfit for human habitation. The struggle for decent housing is most acute among junior personnel, who are often displaced by senior officers. With no organized transport provided by UPF, many officers live far from their workstations, compromising their security and financial stability.

The research also highlights the inadequate office space and essential supplies at police stations and posts, affecting the quality of service and observance of human rights. Officers often lack necessary equipment, uniforms, and even meals while on duty. The reliance on improvisation and external support for basic needs is not only unsustainable but also poses risks to their safety and effectiveness.

The report underlines a clear link between the substandard working and living conditions of UPF personnel and their ability to respect and protect the human rights of others. The challenging circumstances under which officers operate can hinder their service delivery and, in turn, affect their treatment of the public.

The UHRC has put forth several recommendations aimed at enhancing human rights observance within the UPF. These include improving housing, providing adequate supplies and equipment, and ensuring fair treatment in deployments, transfers, and promotions. The Commission also emphasizes the need for better training in human rights principles and a more supportive environment for police personnel to fulfill their duties without undue hardship.

The report's findings have prompted a call to action for all stakeholders, including the government, the UPF, and the public, to collaborate in addressing these challenges. By enhancing the working and living conditions of police personnel, there is a significant opportunity to improve their morale, professionalism, and, crucially, their adherence to human rights standards.

The Uganda Human Rights Commission’s report serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for reforms within the UPF. It urges immediate action to ensure that police personnel are equipped, both physically and morally, to serve and protect the rights of all Ugandans. As the report makes its way through Parliament, it stands as a pivotal moment for Uganda's commitment to human rights and the welfare of those tasked with upholding them.