The chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), Mariam Wangadya, has apologised to President Yoweri Museveni and Ugandans over what she described as leadership failures and internal conflicts that weakened the institution’s ability to deliver on its mandate.
Wangadya, who recently stepped down from her position after months of controversy, said the commission had been consumed by internal disputes that diverted attention from addressing human rights issues across the country.
Appearing before Parliament’s Committee on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Wangadya said she spent months defending herself against accusations instead of carrying out the core responsibilities of the commission.
She said her duties should have focused on supervising investigations, writing rulings, engaging communities, interacting with refugees, and addressing human rights concerns.
“Instead, I have spent months responding to allegations and clarifying that I am not under investigation, not in hiding, and not involved in any wrongdoing,” she said.
Her resignation followed a petition by commissioners Simeo Nsubuga, Col (Rtd) Steven Basaliza, and Jacklet Atuhaire Rwabukurukuru, who raised concerns over the administration and management of the commission.
The commissioners accused Wangadya of alleged financial impropriety, abuse of office, and maladministration, claims she rejected as false and part of an effort to damage her reputation.
Wangadya accused some commissioners of focusing on undermining her leadership instead of working towards fulfilling the constitutional mandate of the UHRC.
The former chairperson said the continued disputes affected service delivery and weakened public confidence in the human rights institution.
She also revealed that the situation caused her emotional distress due to constant media attention, social media attacks, and repeated summons from parliamentary committees.
After 17 years of service at the UHRC, Wangadya said she had never witnessed such intense disagreements within the institution.
“I apologise to His Excellency the President, to Parliament, and to all Ugandans. We have let you down,” she said.
Her resignation now leaves questions about the future leadership of the Uganda Human Rights Commission as authorities consider measures to restore stability and public trust in the institution.
The Chairperson Human Rights Commission Madam Mariam Wangadya has apologized to the country over the wrong words she used against the CIC and the appointing authority H.E President @KagutaMuseveni pic.twitter.com/E9W2ib6QpM
— AIDEN OFFICAL (@Wassajja_Aiden) July 23, 2026
