Uganda Human Rights Commission Act

Interpretation

In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires

"Chairperson" means the Chairperson of the Commission;

"Commission" means the Uganda Human Rights Commission established by Article 51 of the Constitution;

"Commissioner" means a member of the Commission;

"currency point" has the value assigned to it in Schedule 1 to this Act;

"Minister" means the Minister responsible for justice;

"Secretary" means the Secretary to the Commission appointed under section 9 .

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Definition

This section supplies the definitions or statutory meaning governing “Interpretation”.

“In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires "Chairperson" means the Chairperson of the Commission;”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

Use this definition when interpreting other provisions that employ the language addressed by “Interpretation”.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

5

"Commission" means the Uganda Human Rights Commission established by Article 51 of the Constitution;
"Commissioner" means a member of the Commission;
"currency point" has the value assigned to it in Schedule 1 to this Act;
"Minister" means the Minister responsible for justice;
"Secretary" means the Secretary to the Commission appointed under section 9.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

Section 9 · Secretary to Commission

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Appointment and composition of Uganda Human Rights Commission

(1)

The Chairperson and other members of the Uganda Human Rights Commission shall be appointed by the President with the approval of Parliament.

(2)

The members of the Commission, other than the Chairperson, shall not be less than three.

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Mandatory duty

This section imposes mandatory requirements concerning “Appointment and composition of Uganda Human Rights Commission”.

“(1) The Chairperson and other members of the Uganda Human Rights Commission shall be appointed by the President with the approval of Parliament.”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The provision uses mandatory language; the responsible person or institution should be able to demonstrate compliance.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

2

(1) The Chairperson and other members of the Uganda Human Rights Commission shall be appointed by the President with the approval of Parliament.
(2) The members of the Commission, other than the Chairperson, shall not be less than three.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Oath of commissioners

(1)

Every member of the Commission shall, before assuming his or her duties as commissioner, take and subscribe the oath specified in Part I of Schedule 2 to this Act.

(2)

The Secretary shall, before assuming the performance of his or her functions under this Act, take and subscribe the oath specified in Part II of Schedule 2 to this Act.

(3)

Any other officer or employee of the Commission may be directed by the Commission to take and subscribe the oath specified in Part II of Schedule 2 to this Act.

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Oath of commissioners”.

“(1) Every member of the Commission shall, before assuming his or her duties as commissioner, take and subscribe the oath specified in Part I of Schedule 2 to this Act.”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

3

(1) Every member of the Commission shall, before assuming his or her duties as commissioner, take and subscribe the oath specified in Part I of Schedule 2 to this Act.
(2) The Secretary shall, before assuming the performance of his or her functions under this Act, take and subscribe the oath specified in Part II of Schedule 2 to this Act.
(3) Any other officer or employee of the Commission may be directed by the Commission to take and subscribe the oath specified in Part II of Schedule 2 to this Act.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Chairperson of Commission

The Chairperson shall (a) be the head of the Commission;

(b)

be responsible for the direction of the affairs and for the administration of the Commission; and

(c)

monitor and supervise the work of the Secretary.

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Mandatory duty

This section imposes mandatory requirements concerning “Chairperson of Commission”.

“The Chairperson shall (a) be the head of the Commission;”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The provision uses mandatory language; the responsible person or institution should be able to demonstrate compliance.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

2

(b) be responsible for the direction of the affairs and for the administration of the Commission; and
(c) monitor and supervise the work of the Secretary.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Commissioners to relinquish particular offices

A person holding any of the following offices shall relinquish that office on appointment as a member of the Commission (a) a member of Parliament;

(b)

a member of a local government council;

(c)

a member of the executive of a political party or political organisation; or

(d)

a public officer.

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Mandatory duty

This section imposes mandatory requirements concerning “Commissioners to relinquish particular offices”.

“A person holding any of the following offices shall relinquish that office on appointment as a member of the Commission (a) a member of Parliament;”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The provision uses mandatory language; the responsible person or institution should be able to demonstrate compliance.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

3

(b) a member of a local government council;
(c) a member of the executive of a political party or political organisation; or
(d) a public officer.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Commissioners to work full time

The members of the Commission shall hold office on a full time basis

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Mandatory duty

This section imposes mandatory requirements concerning “Commissioners to work full time”.

“The members of the Commission shall hold office on a full time basis”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The provision uses mandatory language; the responsible person or institution should be able to demonstrate compliance.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

1

The members of the Commission shall hold office on a full time basis

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Functions of Commission

(1)

The Commission shall have the following functions-

(a)

to investigate, at its own initiative or on a complaint made by any person or group of persons, the violation of any human right;

(b)

to visit jails, prisons and places of detention or related facilities with a view to assessing and inspecting the conditions of the inmates and make recommendations;

(c)

to visit any place or building where a person is suspected to be illegally detained;

(d)

to establish a continuing programme of research, education and information to enhance respect of human rights;

(e)

to recommend to Parliament effective measures to promote human rights, including provision of compensation to victims of violations of human rights or their families;

(f)

to create and sustain within society the awareness of the provisions of the Constitution as the fundamental law of the people of Uganda;

(g)

to educate and encourage the public to defend the Constitution at all times against all forms of abuse and violation;

(h)

to formulate, implement and oversee programmes intended to inculcate in the citizens of Uganda, awareness of their civic responsibilities and an appreciation of their rights and obligations as free people;

(i)

to monitor the Government's compliance with international treaty and convention obligations on human rights;

(j)

to carry out the functions of the Commission under Article 48 of the Constitution; and

(k)

to perform such other functions as may be provided by law.

(2)

The decisions of the Commission under Article 53(2) of the Constitution shall have effect as those of a court and shall be enforced in the same manner.

(3)

For the avoidance of doubt, the Commission shall, in carrying out its functions, deal only with violations of human rights alleged to have taken place on or after the coming into force of the Constitution.

(4)

The recommendations required to be made by the Commission under subsection (1)(b) shall be to the appropriate Ministry, department or other authority whose functions relate to the matter on which the recommendations are made.

(5)

The recommendations made to Parliament by the Commission under subsection (1)(e) shall be addressed to the Speaker of Parliament and signed by the Chairperson of the Commission; and a copy of the recommendations shall be forwarded to the President.

(6)

The annual report required by Article 52(2) of the Constitution to be submitted to Parliament, shall be addressed to the Speaker of Parliament and signed by the Chairperson of the Commission; and a copy of it shall be forwarded to the President.

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Functions of Commission”.

“(1) The Commission shall have the following functions-”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

17

(1) The Commission shall have the following functions-
(a) to investigate, at its own initiative or on a complaint made by any person or group of persons, the violation of any human right;
(b) to visit jails, prisons and places of detention or related facilities with a view to assessing and inspecting the conditions of the inmates and make recommendations;
(c) to visit any place or building where a person is suspected to be illegally detained;
(d) to establish a continuing programme of research, education and information to enhance respect of human rights;
(e) to recommend to Parliament effective measures to promote human rights, including provision of compensation to victims of violations of human rights or their families;
(f) to create and sustain within society the awareness of the provisions of the Constitution as the fundamental law of the people of Uganda;
(g) to educate and encourage the public to defend the Constitution at all times against all forms of abuse and violation;

9 further items remain in the statutory text above.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

1

Citing judgments are indexed, but no express interpretive proposition has yet passed the passage-verification threshold. Open Judicial treatment for the citing passages.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Offices of Commission

The Commission may establish offices at district and other administrative levels as it considers fit for the better performance of its functions

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Offices of Commission”.

“The Commission may establish offices at district and other administrative levels as it considers fit for the better performance of its functions”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

1

The Commission may establish offices at district and other administrative levels as it considers fit for the better performance of its functions

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Secretary to Commission

(1)

The Commission shall have a Secretary who shall be appointed by the Commission in consultation with the Public Service Commission upon such terms and conditions as may be determined by the Commission in consultation with the Public Service Commission and specified in the instrument of appointment, but the terms and conditions shall not be less favourable than those of a Permanent Secretary.

(2)

The Secretary shall be a person qualified to be appointed to the office of Permanent Secretary.

(3)

Subject to the powers of the Chairperson under section 4 and to the general control of the Commission, the Secretary shall-

(a)

be responsible for carrying out the policy decisions of the Commission and the day-to-day administration and management of the affairs of the Commission and the control of the other staff of the Commission;

(b)

be responsible for arranging the business for and the recording and keeping of the minutes of all decisions and proceedings of the Commission at its meetings; and

(c)

perform any other function assigned to him or her by the Commission.

(4)

The Secretary is, unless in any particular case the Commission otherwise directs in writing, entitled to attend all meetings of the Commission but shall have no vote on any matter falling to be decided by the Commission at any such meeting.

(5)

The Secretary may be removed from office by the Commission only for-

(a)

inability to perform the functions of his or her office arising out of physical or mental incapacity;

(b)

misbehaviour or misconduct; or

(c)

incompetence.

(6)

Before the Secretary is removed from office under subsection (5), he or she shall be informed of the case against him or her and be given adequate opportunity to defend himself or herself against any allegations made against him or her.

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Secretary to Commission”.

“(1) The Commission shall have a Secretary who shall be appointed by the Commission in consultation with the Public Service Commission upon such terms and conditions as may be determined by the Commission in consultation with the Public Service Commission and specified in the instrument of appointment, but the terms and conditions shall not be less favourable than those of a Permanent Secretary.”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

12

(1) The Commission shall have a Secretary who shall be appointed by the Commission in consultation with the Public Service Commission upon such terms and conditions as may be determined by the Commission in consultation with the Public Service Commission and specified in the instrument of appointment, but the terms and conditions shall not be less favourable than those of a Permanent Secretary.
(2) The Secretary shall be a person qualified to be appointed to the office of Permanent Secretary.
(3) Subject to the powers of the Chairperson under section 4 and to the general control of the Commission, the Secretary shall-
(a) be responsible for carrying out the policy decisions of the Commission and the day-to-day administration and management of the affairs of the Commission and the control of the other staff of the Commission;
(b) be responsible for arranging the business for and the recording and keeping of the minutes of all decisions and proceedings of the Commission at its meetings; and
(c) perform any other function assigned to him or her by the Commission.
(4) The Secretary is, unless in any particular case the Commission otherwise directs in writing, entitled to attend all meetings of the Commission but shall have no vote on any matter falling to be decided by the Commission at any such meeting.
(5) The Secretary may be removed from office by the Commission only for-

4 further items remain in the statutory text above.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

Section 4 · Chairperson of Commission

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Other staff of Commission

(1)

The Commission shall have such other officers and employees as may be necessary for the discharge of its functions.

(2)

The officers and employees referred to in subsection (1) shall be appointed by the Commission in consultation with the Public Service Commission and shall hold office upon such terms and conditions as may be determined by the Commission in consultation with the Public Service Commission.

(3)

Public officers may, at the request of the Commission, be seconded to the service of the Commission.

(4)

The Commission may, in consultation with the Public Service Commission, engage the services of consultants, experts and advisers to assist it in the discharge of its functions and may pay to them remuneration at such rates as may be determined by the Commission after similar consultation.

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Other staff of Commission”.

“(1) The Commission shall have such other officers and employees as may be necessary for the discharge of its functions.”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

4

(1) The Commission shall have such other officers and employees as may be necessary for the discharge of its functions.
(2) The officers and employees referred to in subsection (1) shall be appointed by the Commission in consultation with the Public Service Commission and shall hold office upon such terms and conditions as may be determined by the Commission in consultation with the Public Service Commission.
(3) Public officers may, at the request of the Commission, be seconded to the service of the Commission.
(4) The Commission may, in consultation with the Public Service Commission, engage the services of consultants, experts and advisers to assist it in the discharge of its functions and may pay to them remuneration at such rates as may be determined by the Commission after similar consultation.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Meetings and decisions of Commission

(1)

The meetings of the Commission shall be presided over by the Chairperson, and in the absence of the Chairperson, the members of the Commission present may appoint a member from among their number to preside over the meeting.

(2)

Every decision of the Commission shall, so far as possible, be by consensus.

(3)

In any vote at any meeting of the Commission, each commissioner shall have one vote and none shall have a casting vote.

(4)

The Commission shall otherwise have power to prescribe its own procedure.

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Meetings and decisions of Commission”.

“(1) The meetings of the Commission shall be presided over by the Chairperson, and in the absence of the Chairperson, the members of the Commission present may appoint a member from among their number to preside over the meeting.”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

4

(1) The meetings of the Commission shall be presided over by the Chairperson, and in the absence of the Chairperson, the members of the Commission present may appoint a member from among their number to preside over the meeting.
(2) Every decision of the Commission shall, so far as possible, be by consensus.
(3) In any vote at any meeting of the Commission, each commissioner shall have one vote and none shall have a casting vote.
(4) The Commission shall otherwise have power to prescribe its own procedure.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Funds of Commission

(1)

Parliament shall ensure that adequate resources and facilities are provided to the Commission to enable it to perform its functions effectively.

(2)

The administrative expenses of the Commission shall be charged on the Consolidated Fund.

(3)

The funds of the Commission may, with the approval of the Minister acting in consultation with the Minister responsible for finance, include grants and donations from sources within or outside Uganda to enable the Commission to discharge its functions.

(4)

All funds provided to the Commission under Article 55 of the Constitution or under this Act shall be administered and controlled by the Secretary who shall be the Accounting Officer in accordance with the Public Finance Management Act.

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Funds of Commission”.

“(1) Parliament shall ensure that adequate resources and facilities are provided to the Commission to enable it to perform its functions effectively.”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

4

(1) Parliament shall ensure that adequate resources and facilities are provided to the Commission to enable it to perform its functions effectively.
(2) The administrative expenses of the Commission shall be charged on the Consolidated Fund.
(3) The funds of the Commission may, with the approval of the Minister acting in consultation with the Minister responsible for finance, include grants and donations from sources within or outside Uganda to enable the Commission to discharge its functions.
(4) All funds provided to the Commission under Article 55 of the Constitution or under this Act shall be administered and controlled by the Secretary who shall be the Accounting Officer in accordance with the Public Finance Management Act.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

Public Finance Management Act

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Immunity of members and staff of Commission

A member of the Commission or any employee or other person performing any function of the Commission under the direction of the Commission shall not be personally liable to any civil proceedings for any act done in good faith in the performance of those functions

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Mandatory duty

This section imposes mandatory requirements concerning “Immunity of members and staff of Commission”.

“A member of the Commission or any employee or other person performing any function of the Commission under the direction of the Commission shall not be personally liable to any civil proceedings for any act done in good faith in the performance of those functions”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The provision uses mandatory language; the responsible person or institution should be able to demonstrate compliance.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

1

A member of the Commission or any employee or other person performing any function of the Commission under the direction of the Commission shall not be personally liable to any civil proceedings for any act done in good faith in the performance of those functions

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Seal of Commission

The Commission shall have a seal which shall be in such form as the Commission may determine and, subject to the provisions of any law, be applied in such circumstances as the Commission may determine

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Seal of Commission”.

“The Commission shall have a seal which shall be in such form as the Commission may determine and, subject to the provisions of any law, be applied in such circumstances as the Commission may determine”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

1

The Commission shall have a seal which shall be in such form as the Commission may determine and, subject to the provisions of any law, be applied in such circumstances as the Commission may determine

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Counsel

(1)

The Attorney General may attend upon the Commission and give such assistance to it as the Commission may request.

(2)

A witness before the Commission may be represented by counsel.

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Counsel”.

“(1) The Attorney General may attend upon the Commission and give such assistance to it as the Commission may request.”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

2

(1) The Attorney General may attend upon the Commission and give such assistance to it as the Commission may request.
(2) A witness before the Commission may be represented by counsel.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Examination on oath or affirmation

The Commission shall have power to cause a witness to be examined on oath or affirmation

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Examination on oath or affirmation”.

“The Commission shall have power to cause a witness to be examined on oath or affirmation”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

1

The Commission shall have power to cause a witness to be examined on oath or affirmation

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Evidence of witnesses, etc

(1)

The evidence of every witness shall be taken down, and the witness may, if he or she requests for it, be given a copy.

(2)

The Commission shall have power to commit persons for contempt of its orders.

(3)

A person alleged to be in contempt may be represented by counsel in proceedings for the alleged contempt.

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Evidence of witnesses, etc”.

“(1) The evidence of every witness shall be taken down, and the witness may, if he or she requests for it, be given a copy.”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

3

(1) The evidence of every witness shall be taken down, and the witness may, if he or she requests for it, be given a copy.
(2) The Commission shall have power to commit persons for contempt of its orders.
(3) A person alleged to be in contempt may be represented by counsel in proceedings for the alleged contempt.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Attendance allowance

(1)

A person summoned by and appearing before the Commission as a witness is entitled to be paid, by way of reimbursement of his or her expenses, such allowances as are payable to a witness appearing before the High Court in criminal proceedings.

(2)

Any other person invited by the Commission to attend any meeting of the Commission to assist the Commission may be paid by the Commission such allowances as the Commission may consider reasonable.

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Attendance allowance”.

“(1) A person summoned by and appearing before the Commission as a witness is entitled to be paid, by way of reimbursement of his or her expenses, such allowances as are payable to a witness appearing before the High Court in criminal proceedings.”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

2

(1) A person summoned by and appearing before the Commission as a witness is entitled to be paid, by way of reimbursement of his or her expenses, such allowances as are payable to a witness appearing before the High Court in criminal proceedings.
(2) Any other person invited by the Commission to attend any meeting of the Commission to assist the Commission may be paid by the Commission such allowances as the Commission may consider reasonable.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Immunities and privileges of witnesses

A witness appearing before the Commission shall have the same immunities and privileges as if he or she were a witness before the High Court

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Mandatory duty

This section imposes mandatory requirements concerning “Immunities and privileges of witnesses”.

“A witness appearing before the Commission shall have the same immunities and privileges as if he or she were a witness before the High Court”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The provision uses mandatory language; the responsible person or institution should be able to demonstrate compliance.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

1

A witness appearing before the Commission shall have the same immunities and privileges as if he or she were a witness before the High Court

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Application of High Court Rules

Any rules of court applicable to civil or criminal proceedings in the High Court may be applied by the Commission for the purposes of the exercise of its powers under Article 53 of the Constitution or any other of its functions subject to such modifications as may be made by the Chief Justice by statutory instrument in consultation with the Commission

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Scope rule

This section defines when and how “Application of High Court Rules” applies.

“Any rules of court applicable to civil or criminal proceedings in the High Court may be applied by the Commission for the purposes of the exercise of its powers under Article 53 of the Constitution or any other of its functions subject to such modifications as may be made by the Chief Justice by statutory instrument in consultation with the Commission”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

Confirm that the matter and forum fall within this section before applying the Act's remaining provisions.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

1

Any rules of court applicable to civil or criminal proceedings in the High Court may be applied by the Commission for the purposes of the exercise of its powers under Article 53 of the Constitution or any other of its functions subject to such modifications as may be made by the Chief Justice by statutory instrument in consultation with the Commission

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Appeals under Article 53(3) of Constitution

(1)

The Chief Justice shall make rules of court for regulating appeals to the High Court under Article 53(3) from orders of the Commission made under Article 53(2) of the Constitution.

(2)

Rules made under subsection (1) may, without prejudice to the general effect of subsection (1), provide for-

(a)

the period within which an appeal may be lodged;

(b)

forms and fees in relation to such appeals;

(c)

the procedure generally for hearing such appeals; and

(d)

the application to such appeals, with or without modification, of any rules of court applicable to the High Court.

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Appeals under Article 53(3) of Constitution”.

“(1) The Chief Justice shall make rules of court for regulating appeals to the High Court under Article 53(3) from orders of the Commission made under Article 53(2) of the Constitution.”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

6

(1) The Chief Justice shall make rules of court for regulating appeals to the High Court under Article 53(3) from orders of the Commission made under Article 53(2) of the Constitution.
(2) Rules made under subsection (1) may, without prejudice to the general effect of subsection (1), provide for-
(a) the period within which an appeal may be lodged;
(b) forms and fees in relation to such appeals;
(c) the procedure generally for hearing such appeals; and
(d) the application to such appeals, with or without modification, of any rules of court applicable to the High Court.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Obstruction of Commission

Without prejudice to the Commission's power to commit for contempt, any person who wilfully obstructs or interferes with the exercise of its functions commits an offence and is liable, on conviction, to a fine not exceeding sixty currency points or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or both

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Offence or consequence

This section creates or governs statutory liability concerning “Obstruction of Commission”.

“Without prejudice to the Commission's power to commit for contempt, any person who wilfully obstructs or interferes with the exercise of its functions commits an offence and is liable, on conviction, to a fine not exceeding sixty currency points or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or both”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

A party alleging or defending liability should test the facts and prescribed consequence against each operative requirement.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

0

This section states a single governing proposition and does not enumerate separate elements.

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

No victimisation of persons assisting Commission

No person who, in good faith, gives any information to the Commission or assists the Commission in the exercise of its functions shall be punished in any way for doing so

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Mandatory duty

This section imposes mandatory requirements concerning “No victimisation of persons assisting Commission”.

“No person who, in good faith, gives any information to the Commission or assists the Commission in the exercise of its functions shall be punished in any way for doing so”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The provision uses mandatory language; the responsible person or institution should be able to demonstrate compliance.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

1

No person who, in good faith, gives any information to the Commission or assists the Commission in the exercise of its functions shall be punished in any way for doing so

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Limitation

No complaint shall be brought before the Commission after the expiration of five years from the date on which the alleged violation of a human right to which the complaint relates occurred

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Mandatory duty

This section imposes mandatory requirements concerning “Limitation”.

“No complaint shall be brought before the Commission after the expiration of five years from the date on which the alleged violation of a human right to which the complaint relates occurred”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The provision uses mandatory language; the responsible person or institution should be able to demonstrate compliance.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

1

No complaint shall be brought before the Commission after the expiration of five years from the date on which the alleged violation of a human right to which the complaint relates occurred

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

1

Citing judgments are indexed, but no express interpretive proposition has yet passed the passage-verification threshold. Open Judicial treatment for the citing passages.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Extension of limitation period

Where a person entitled to bring a complaint before the Commission against any violation of a human right is incapacitated from doing so by reason of age, infirmity of body or mind, detention or other just cause, whether similar to the foregoing or not, the complaint may be brought at any time within five years after the incapacity ceases or the person entitled to bring the complaint dies, whichever event first occurs

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Extension of limitation period”.

“Where a person entitled to bring a complaint before the Commission against any violation of a human right is incapacitated from doing so by reason of age, infirmity of body or mind, detention or other just cause, whether similar to the foregoing or not, the complaint may be brought at any time within five years after the incapacity ceases or the person entitled to bring the complaint dies, whichever event first occurs”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

1

Where a person entitled to bring a complaint before the Commission against any violation of a human right is incapacitated from doing so by reason of age, infirmity of body or mind, detention or other just cause, whether similar to the foregoing or not, the complaint may be brought at any time within five years after the incapacity ceases or the person entitled to bring the complaint dies, whichever event first occurs

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Regulations

The Commission may, in consultation with the Minister, make regulations for carrying into effect the provisions of this Act and, in particular, for facilitating the work of the Commission

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Regulations”.

“The Commission may, in consultation with the Minister, make regulations for carrying into effect the provisions of this Act and, in particular, for facilitating the work of the Commission”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

1

The Commission may, in consultation with the Minister, make regulations for carrying into effect the provisions of this Act and, in particular, for facilitating the work of the Commission

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

No express internal or cross-Act reference appears in this section.

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Power to amend Schedule 1

The Minister may, by statutory instrument, with the approval of Cabinet, amend Schedule 1 to this Act Schedule 1 (Sections 1 , 27 )

Currency point A currency point is equivalent to twenty thousand shillings.

Schedule 2 (Section 3 )

Oaths

Part I - Oath of Member of Uganda Human Rights Commission I, ________________, being appointed Chairperson/member of the Uganda Human Rights Commission, swear in the name of the Almighty God/solemnly affirm that I will well and truly exercise the functions of Chairperson/ member of the Uganda Human Rights Commission and do right to all manner of people in accordance with the Constitution and in accordance with the laws of the Republic of Uganda without fear of favour, affection or ill will. (So help me God.)

Part II - Oath of Secretary/Officer of Commission I, ________________, being appointed Secretary to/officer of the Commission being called upon to perform the functions of Secretary to/officer of the Commission swear in the name of the Almighty God/solemnly affirm that I will not directly or indirectly reveal to any unauthorised person, or otherwise than in the course of duty, the contents or any part of the contents of any documents, communication or information which may come to my knowledge in the course of my duties as such. (So help me God).

Section analysis Source-linked statutory analysis Source linked

Approved statute annotation. Statutory quotations are matched to this consolidation and judicial passages are linked to judgments. Check the primary sources alongside this analysis.

What this section does

Statutory power

This section confers or regulates the statutory power described as “Power to amend Schedule 1”.

“The Minister may, by statutory instrument, with the approval of Cabinet, amend Schedule 1 to this Act Schedule 1 (Sections 1, 27)”

Primary legislation Source quotation matched

Practical effect

The power must be exercised by the authorised decision-maker, within the conditions and purpose stated in the section.

Deterministic editorial synthesis — not a substitute for the statutory text Editorial synthesis approved

Elements or requirements

Operative requirements extracted from the consolidated text.

2

The Minister may, by statutory instrument, with the approval of Cabinet, amend Schedule 1 to this Act Schedule 1 (Sections 1, 27)
Part II - Oath of Secretary/Officer of Commission I, ________________, being appointed Secretary to/officer of the Commission being called upon to perform the functions of Secretary to/officer of the Commission swear in the name of the Almighty God/solemnly affirm that I will not directly or indirectly reveal to any unauthorised person, or otherwise than in the course of duty, the contents or any part of the contents of any documents, communication or information which may come to my knowledge in the course of my duties as such. (So help me God).

Judicial interpretation

Express propositions in source-matched passages from judgments citing this section.

0

No judgment in the current Wakilii corpus expressly cites this section. Bare rule-number references are not assigned where the Order cannot be verified.

Related provisions

Section 1 · Interpretation Section 3 · Oath of commissioners

Amendment notes

No section-specific amendment note or instrument-level amendment history appears in this consolidation.

Uganda Human Rights Commission Act

About this Act

Full text of the Act