National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine, has welcomed a joint appeal by 246 civil society organisations coordinated by the global alliance CIVICUS, saying it reflects growing international concern over Uganda's political and human rights situation.
In a statement shared on social media, Bobi Wine said the letter urges the international community to take "urgent action to stop the escalating human rights abuses and dictatorship in Uganda."
The document, portions of which were shared in the screenshots, alleges arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, torture, attacks on journalists, restrictions on civil society organisations, and continued pressure on opposition leaders, lawyers and human rights defenders.
It also calls on institutions including the United Nations Human Rights Council, the African Union, the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights, the East African Community and foreign governments to increase diplomatic engagement with Uganda and press for accountability over alleged abuses.
Among the recommendations outlined in the letter are calls for:
Public condemnation of alleged human rights violations. Independent international investigations into allegations of killings, disappearances and torture. The release of detained opposition figures, activists and journalists. Review of legislation that the organisations argue has restricted civic space. Greater protection for journalists and human rights defenders.
Bobi Wine welcomed the initiative, saying it demonstrates "strong global solidarity" and urged international actors to intervene before, in his words, "the situation in Uganda deteriorates beyond a point of no return."
The letter also raises concerns about restrictions affecting sections of the media and civil society and criticises what it describes as increasing militarisation of civic and political space.
Ugandan authorities have consistently rejected accusations that they systematically violate human rights. Government officials have previously maintained that security agencies operate within the law and that measures taken against individuals or organisations are aimed at preserving national security and public order. They have also disputed allegations of politically motivated persecution.
The publication of the CIVICUS-backed appeal comes months after the European Parliament adopted a resolution expressing concern over Uganda's post-election political environment and calling for investigations into reported human rights violations, while urging reforms and the protection of civil liberties.