Robert Menedez, a US Senate Committee chairperson petitioned US president Joe Biden to terminate an invitation for Ugandan tyrant Yoweri Museveni who is expected to attend the 2022 US-Africa Leaders Summit. In the petition, Menedez referred to the brutality unleashed on citizens by security forces acting on command of Gen. Museveni.
Also contained in his March 28 letter, Menedez wants Museveni’s son who commands the land forces in Uganda to be slapped with sanctions over his direct involvement in the torture of celebrated writer Kakwenza Rukirabashaija who fled to exile in Germany.
Menedez explains that Museveni’s 36 year rule has been characterised by mass killings, violence on dissenters, gross rights abuses of civilians and press and arbitrary arrests without trial for all those opposed to his dictatorship.
In his petitions, Menedez reflects on the 2020 November killing spree that left over 54 Ugandan civilians killed by security forces in the capital, Kampala. He also replicates that unaccounted November 2016 Kasese massacre that left over 100 women and children murdered by soldiers commanded by then Brig. Peter Elwelu.
In his petition, Menedez further challenges Museveni’s constant constitutional amendments that have enabled him take grip on the top seat. He adds that US should take action and cut aid funds to the notorious Kampala administration.
“Despite this troubling track record, Uganda remains one of the top recipients of US foreign aid and security assistance. While the US has issued statements and expressions of concern after human rights violations come to light, such statements are insufficient. Personal targeted sanctions would have greater impact,” appeals Menedez.
As of April 4, the Biden administration had not yet responded to the Menedez petition but sources say Museveni could face his worst in case he lays foot on US soil. Ugandans living in the US plan to lead peaceful demonstrations challenging the presence of dictator Museveni on US soil.
