Former Kampala Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura has launched a sharp attack on Uganda’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, accusing him of failing to uphold the rule of law in the face of alleged human rights violations.
In a statement, Nyanjura cited the reported abduction and detention of former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, claiming he was “violently abducted from his home, tortured, and remanded to Luzira Prison.”
She also raised concern over the reported disappearance of veteran political figure Dr. Miria Matembe, following what she described as a “terrifying military raid” on her residence.
Nyanjura questioned Mao’s silence, arguing that his constitutional mandate requires him to protect citizens and ensure adherence to the law.
“As the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, your core mandate is to safeguard the Constitution and protect the rule of law,” she said, adding that alleged state-sponsored abductions were becoming normalized under his watch.
The former deputy mayor further claimed that victims of alleged torture were increasingly being denied bail, raising concerns about due process and judicial independence.
Her remarks reflect growing criticism from sections of the opposition and civil society over the handling of political dissent in Uganda.
Nyanjura also took aim at Mao’s political conduct, questioning whether his previous outspoken positions were genuine.
“Was all your noise before the Speaker selection merely a strategy to get you back to cabinet?” she posed, suggesting political opportunism.
She concluded by warning that the justice docket was “collapsing under the weight of human rights violations,” and demanded accountability from the minister. “Where are you, and where is the justice you promised?” she asked.