Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-20 15:21:35
Makerere University Academic Staff Association (Muasa) has strongly condemned the alleged threats on Dr. Jim Spire Ssentongo’s life due to his vocal stance against corruption and misuse of public funds. Dr. Ssentongo, a lecturer at Makerere University, has been leading an exhibition on social media platforms, revealing shocking information about corruption within Parliament. These threats come amidst a backdrop of increasing violence and targeted attacks in Uganda.
In a letter dated March 20, Muasa expressed grave concerns over the safety of Dr. Ssentongo, citing recent incidents such as arbitrary detentions, murders, and assassination attempts on public figures. The association emphasized that they take these threats seriously and are deeply troubled by the climate of fear and intimidation that has emerged.
Muasa highlighted Dr. Ssentongo’s advocacy against corruption and reiterated his right to academic freedom as enshrined in the Ugandan Constitution. They emphasized that every individual has the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and belief, including academic freedom in educational institutions. The association firmly stated that Dr. Ssentongo, along with all academic staff, must be able to carry out their work without fear for their safety.
Furthermore, Muasa called upon the police and other security agencies to provide protection to Dr. Ssentongo in light of these threats. They demanded immediate and concrete actions from relevant authorities to ensure his safety and safeguard his academic freedom. The association emphasized that any attack on Dr. Ssentongo’s academic freedom is an attack on the entire academic community and must be addressed swiftly and decisively.
The situation underscores the challenges faced by academics and activists in speaking out against corruption and injustice in Uganda. Despite the risks involved, individuals like Dr. Ssentongo continue to shine a light on issues that affect society at large, risking their safety in the process.
It is imperative that the authorities take these threats seriously and provide adequate protection to those who dare to speak truth to power. Academic freedom is a fundamental right that must be upheld and defended, especially in environments where corruption and misconduct are prevalent.
As the situation unfolds, Muasa remains vigilant in safeguarding the rights and safety of its members, advocating for academic freedom, and pushing for accountability and transparency in all sectors of society. The threats against Dr. Ssentongo must not go ignored, and the perpetrators must be held accountable for their actions.
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