A fresh storm is brewing at the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) as questions continue to mount over the prolonged absence of Chairperson Mariam Wangadya, with staff and commissioners reportedly growing increasingly anxious about the future of the constitutional body.
At the center of the unfolding drama is an internal memo dated May 29, 2026, showing Commissioner Lamex Omara Apitta formally handing back the office of Chairperson to Wangadya after serving in an acting capacity for nearly two months.
The document, seen by this publication, indicates that Wangadya delegated her duties to Apitta through internal communications issued on April 2 and April 17, 2026, authorizing him to oversee the affairs of the Commission until May 29.In the memo, Apitta thanked Wangadya for entrusting him with the responsibilities of leading the institution during her absence.
“I wish to register my sincere appreciation to you for entrusting me with handling the privileged matters of the high office of Chairperson of the UHRC,” Apitta wrote.
But while the memo suggested Wangadya was expected to resume office at the end of May, sources within the Commission say her anticipated return never materialized.Instead, staff members were reportedly informed that the Chairperson would remain away from office for an unspecified period, further deepening uncertainty within the institution.
LEADERSHIP VACUUM FEARS
Several employees who spoke on condition of anonymity described a tense atmosphere inside the Commission. “There is confusion because people expected the Chairperson to return after May,” one staff member said.
“When another communication came indicating she would still be away, many people started asking questions. Staff want clarity because important decisions require leadership.”Another employee said the uncertainty has created anxiety among workers who are already concerned about ongoing investigations into the institution.
“People are worried because we are already facing scrutiny from the Inspectorate of Government. At a time like this, the Commission needs visible leadership.”Sources say some commissioners have privately expressed concern that several key administrative and tribunal functions have been slowed by the continued absence of the substantive Chairperson.
WHO IS IN CHARGE?
The situation has become even more complicated following reports that Apitta, who had been acting as Chairperson, is currently in Geneva, Switzerland.According to sources, he is attending an International Labour Organisation (ILO) meeting in his capacity as a member of the Federation of Uganda Employers.
That development has reportedly sparked fresh questions among staff regarding who is currently overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Commission.
“There are people asking who exactly is steering the ship right now,” another insider said.
“With the Chairperson away and the Acting Chairperson on an international assignment, staff naturally want to know where authority lies.”Commission insiders say routine operations continue, but there is concern that strategic decisions requiring top-level leadership could face delays.
MEMO REVEALS INTERNAL CHANGES
The handover memo also reveals a series of leadership transitions that took place during Wangadya’s absence. According to Apitta’s report, one of the first major developments occurred on April 9, 2026, when Margaret Lucy Ejang handed over the office of UHRC Secretary.The position was temporarily assumed by Mr. Kamadi Byonabye, Director of Research, Education and Documentation, who took over as Acting Secretary.
The same document further indicates that Christopher Turigye, the outgoing Director of Finance and Administration, also handed over office during the period.The multiple transitions have added to perceptions of instability within the Commission at a time when the institution is facing intense public scrutiny.
SHADOW OF IGG INVESTIGATIONS
The uncertainty surrounding Wangadya’s absence comes against the backdrop of a high-profile Inspectorate of Government investigation.
The probe was launched following complaints alleging corruption, abuse of office, procurement irregularities, maladministration and governance failures within the Commission.Although no findings have yet been publicly released, the investigations have placed the Commission under an uncomfortable spotlight.
The allegations have generated widespread public interest because UHRC is mandated to promote and protect human rights, investigate abuses and hold institutions accountable.Some observers argue that the Commission must itself demonstrate the highest standards of transparency and accountability.
“The public expects the Human Rights Commission to be beyond reproach,” said a governance analyst who requested anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.”When questions arise about leadership and accountability within such an institution, they naturally attract public attention.”
TRIBUNAL WORK AFFECTED
Sources within the Commission claim that some tribunal proceedings have experienced delays due to the ongoing leadership uncertainty.
UHRC tribunals play a critical role in hearing complaints, determining compensation and addressing alleged human rights violations.
According to insiders, some matters require the participation of the Chairperson together with commissioners, making leadership continuity particularly important. “There are cases that need collective consideration,” one official explained.
“When there is uncertainty at the top, it can affect scheduling and decision-making.”However, other staff members insist that Commission work has not completely stopped and that technical teams continue to perform their duties.
STAFF SEEK ANSWERS
Behind closed doors, many employees are reportedly hoping for a clear communication from Commission leadership.
“There is a need for certainty,” one employee said. “People simply want to know who is in charge and what the plan is moving forward.”
Another staff member said transparency would help restore confidence among workers.”When there is silence, speculation fills the gap. Clear communication would help staff focus on their work.”
PRESSURE MOUNTS
The prolonged absence of Wangadya has inevitably fueled speculation both inside and outside the institution.Some observers have linked the situation to the ongoing IGG investigations, while others insist there may be legitimate administrative reasons for her continued absence.
As of now, no official explanation has been publicly provided regarding when the Chairperson is expected to fully resume her duties. The silence has only intensified curiosity.For an institution charged with defending the rights of Ugandans and promoting good governance, the unfolding leadership uncertainty presents a delicate challenge.
With the IGG investigations continuing, commissioners facing difficult questions and staff demanding clarity, pressure is mounting on UHRC leadership to provide answers.Until then, a cloud of uncertainty continues to hover over one of Uganda’s most important constitutional institutions, leaving employees, stakeholders and members of the public watching closely for the next chapter in the unfolding drama.
Author Profile
- Charles Gazza Kodili is a seasoned journalist with over 20 years of experience in the media industry. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication. He’s currently the Chief Editor at the Investigator.
Charles can also be reached via; Tel: +256 774 108978
Email: [email protected]
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