MP Zaake Urges Parliament to Probe Uganda Prisons Over Inhumane Treatment and Illegal Haircuts of Suspects

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Summary:

• “I have just come from prison, and any of you could find yourselves in the same situation arrested, taken to prison, and having your hair cut off illegally. According to our laws, unless one is convicted, such humiliations should not occur. This is inhumane and unacceptable. It’s fortunate that some of my colleagues were granted bail. I was with them, and the conditions in prison are extremely poor. Our people are suffering. Some have been on remand for 4-6 years without ever appearing before a judge,” Zaake stated.

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KAMPALA: Mityana Municipality MP, Zaake Francis, has called on Parliament to investigate the practice of the Uganda Prisons Service cutting off suspects’ hair upon arrival at prison, even before they have been convicted of any crime.

Zaake’s concerns arise amid growing scrutiny of Uganda Prisons Service for its alleged inhumane treatment and the deplorable living conditions within its facilities.

These concerns have been highlighted by young Ugandans who were arrested during the July 2024 march to Parliament, protesting corruption within the legislative body.

Many inmates have reported issues such as overcrowding, inadequate sanitation facilities, torn and dirty uniforms, and poor-quality food, with some stating that only two meals are provided each day.

“I have just come from prison, and any of you could find yourselves in the same situation arrested, taken to prison, and having your hair cut off illegally. According to our laws, unless one is convicted, such humiliations should not occur. This is inhumane and unacceptable. It’s fortunate that some of my colleagues were granted bail. I was with them, and the conditions in prison are extremely poor. Our people are suffering. Some have been on remand for 4-6 years without ever appearing before a judge,” Zaake stated.

In response, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa tasked Parliament’s Human Rights Committee with investigating the matter. He emphasized that Parliament is supposed to receive an annual report on the state of the country’s prison facilities.

“Annually, we are supposed to receive a report on the state of prisons. I assign you to look into this matter as soon as possible,” Tayebwa said.