In Uganda, political activists opposing the ruling government face relentless persecution and torture, particularly supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP). Among those who have endured the harshest treatment is Wasswa Jacob Katende, a vocal NUP supporter, whose experiences highlight the brutal realities faced by many under President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s regime.
Born in 1989 in Nakifuma Mukono District, Wasswa is the third of six children. Orphaned at a young age, he had to navigate life’s challenges early on, with limited educational opportunities and financial struggles. Despite these hardships, Wasswa’s determination led him to work in Kampala’s Kikuubo trading center, where he encountered influential figures and became politically aware.
In 2017, Wasswa joined the People Power movement, a resistance group against the injustices perpetrated by Museveni’s government. The movement, led by musician-turned-politician Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine), resonated with many Ugandans, including Wasswa, who were drawn to its message of freedom from oppression.
Wasswa actively participated in several key campaigns, including the protest against the amendment of the constitution to remove presidential age limits, known as the “Togikwato” campaign, and the opposition to the social media tax (OTT). His involvement in these activities did not go unnoticed. “We have been denied rights to freedom, we are denied freedom of speech. What you say can get you killed. We love Kyagulanyi and we are in danger because we support NUP,” Wasswa asserts.
His activism came at a steep personal cost. During a peaceful demonstration against the OTT in July 2018, Wasswa was arrested and later released on bail. The political climate grew increasingly hostile, and following the controversial 2020 presidential campaign, NUP supporters like Wasswa faced heightened repression.
One of the most harrowing experiences for Wasswa occurred in November 2020, during a rally in Nakifuma. The police intercepted their convoy, resulting in a violent confrontation where live bullets and tear gas were used. Wasswa’s vehicle crashed, and despite sustaining a dislocated shoulder, he was arrested and detained at Nagalama Police Station for 48 hours. Tragically, his colleague Jonathan Ssempala died from injuries sustained during the incident.
Wasswa’s home in Nsangi was not spared from the government’s crackdown. His wife suffered a miscarriage after being physically assaulted by the police during a raid. Fearing for their safety, Wasswa’s family had to relocate to Masaka, away from the constant threat of government surveillance and violence.
Following his release from Nagalama, Wasswa was transferred to Tororo military barracks, where he endured severe torture and was denied access to legal representation. The authorities sought information about NUP’s activities, funding, and alleged weapons, despite the movement being non-violent and purely advocating for human rights and democratic change.
The ongoing threats forced Wasswa into hiding, moving from place to place for over a year and a half. His friend Amos provided refuge and support, underscoring the precarious existence of many political activists in Uganda. “Even if you are educated and you are a Muganda, it’s very difficult to get a job, and if by chance you have employment, you have to be affiliated with the government or else you risk losing it,” Wasswa explains.
Wasswa’s story is a stark reminder of the severe repression faced by political activists in Uganda. His journey underscores the urgent need for international attention and intervention to protect human rights and support those who courageously oppose authoritarian regimes.
As Uganda continues to witness severe repression of opposition voices, the international community must take a stand. Human rights organizations and foreign governments need to apply pressure on Museveni’s regime to cease these human rights abuses. Uganda’s activists, like Wasswa, demand and deserve our support in their fight for justice and democracy. The world must not turn a blind eye to their plight.
