The resignation of former Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) chairperson Mariam Wangadya has triggered fresh political reactions, with National Unity Platform (NUP) Secretary General David Rubongoya warning of deepening institutional instability in Uganda.
Wangadya stepped down in July 2026 following months of reported internal conflict within the Uganda Human Rights Commission, alongside public criticism of both fellow commissioners and the government’s appointment processes.
Reacting to the development, Rubongoya expressed surprise at the turn of events, pointing to Wangadya’s previously firm stance on governance and accountability issues.
“With the way she was speaking and acting a few months back, it's crazy to see Mariam Wangadya being pushed to the point of resignation,” Rubongoya said.
He warned that the circumstances surrounding her exit reflect broader systemic challenges, particularly concerning the rule of law and institutional independence.
“We must all work for the rule of law, otherwise everyone will be forced to learn the hard way. No one can be safe in a sinking ship,” he added.
Wangadya’s tenure at the UHRC had increasingly come under strain, with reports of internal divisions, accusations of incompetence among commissioners, and a breakdown in working relationships within the commission.
Her public remarks criticizing the appointment system under President Yoweri Museveni further intensified tensions, placing her leadership under scrutiny.