The European Parliament has taken a bold step against alleged abuses in Uganda, demanding an independent investigation into the country’s military and political leaders. The resolution, adopted overwhelmingly on February 12, 2026, targets those suspected of committing crimes against humanity following the January 15 general elections.
Lawmakers cited widespread intimidation, violence, fraud, and a nationwide internet blackout. They called for the immediate release of opposition figures and condemned the killing of supporters, insisting that Uganda restore constitutional safeguards and respect the rule of law to protect its citizens and democracy.
European Parliament Demands Accountability for Rogue Uganda’s Military Chiefs and Politicians
Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) voiced deep concern over Uganda’s handling of its elections. The resolution describes President Yoweri Museveni’s administration as having systematically violated human rights. Lawmakers specifically condemned the harassment and detention of opposition leaders, including National Unity Platform (NUP) head Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, and veteran politician Kizza Besigye.
“The European Parliament calls for independent and impartial investigations into crimes against humanity committed by political and military leaders,” the resolution stated. It underscored that such violations cannot go unchecked and that international oversight is urgently needed.
The parliamentarians also criticized the widespread use of force against civilians and the targeting of civil society groups. The resolution highlighted the suspensions and intimidation aimed at NGOs and political activists. According to MEPs, the clampdown undermined Uganda’s democratic institutions and violated international norms.
Arrests and Violence Against Opposition
The European Parliament condemned arbitrary arrests and extrajudicial killings following the polls. Supporters of the NUP reportedly faced attacks, and many remain missing or unaccounted for. Lawmakers demanded that the Ugandan government disclose the whereabouts of all detained individuals and release them without conditions.
Civilian trials in military courts were another point of contention. MEPs insisted that all political detainees should face fair trials under civilian judicial systems with full adherence to constitutional safeguards. They warned that the continuation of military trials for civilians would further damage Uganda’s credibility on the global stage.
Calls for Reform and Internet Freedom
The resolution did not stop at condemning abuses. It called for sweeping electoral and institutional reforms to restore public confidence in Uganda’s democratic process. Parliamentarians emphasized that transparency and freedom of expression are essential for legitimate governance.
They specifically demanded an end to nationwide internet restrictions, which had prevented independent reporting and obstructed citizens’ access to information during the elections.
Lawmakers urged Museveni’s administration to adopt measures that ensure all future elections are free, fair, and credible. The resolution also highlighted the need for comprehensive reforms in security institutions to prevent further human rights violations by military chiefs and politicians.
The European Parliament’s resolution marks a rare and direct intervention in Uganda’s domestic politics. By targeting both political and military leaders, MEPs have sent a clear signal that international scrutiny will follow human rights abuses, arbitrary detentions, and election-related violence. With the probe underway, global attention is squarely focused on how Uganda addresses these allegations and whether its leaders will be held accountable for the reported crimes.
