Death penalty is cruel and inhuman

I n this 21st century, the issue of human rights has taken centre stage. The fundamental right to life has been discussed from many angles, whether in relation to armed conflict, refugees, abortion or the issue of capital punishment etc.

Gradually, with so many countries taking lead, there is an international trend, away from capital punishment. However, the debate surrounding this issue is far from over since the President is again threatening to change history of this country, not to mention for the bad.

Death penalty should not be used as a political tool, used to punish political opponents. It should be addressed with a moral and ethical aspect. Death penalty is irretrievable. Execution is the ultimate unalterable punishment, and the risk of executing an innocent person can never be under looked.

Like many other African countries, which have or are in the process of rewriting the Constitution, the death penalty is a serious concern because it is vindictive, inhuman and demeaning to any human being regardless of crime, method of execution and innocence.

In Uganda, we are all aware that previous executions were as follows; 1989 three, 1991 eight, 1993 nine, 1996 three and the last execution of the 28 inmates was on April 29, 1999 in Luzira Upper Prison, and in 2005 another execution was done in the military court. Today, there are currently six women and 145 males living in the condemned section of Luzira Prison, which was originally built for between 50 and 60 inmates.

In positive terms, Uganda has not executed any juveniles as in accordance with the ICCPR. Based on the actions of the Ugandan Prison Services towards the treatment of juveniles, it should be safe to assume that this trend will continue. Nor have there been any public executions.

Only a few crimes should be reserved for maximum sentence, and not death penalty for example treason. We all make reference to the late Nelson Mandela. Admire what he has done for Africa as a whole, especially South Africa ever since his release in 1990. What would be our feeling if he had been hanged for treason in 1960? This calls for reflection for all those, who still warranty death penalty as a sentence

Globally, there is an open debate of the legality, morality and ethics of this practice. Everyone has an opinion on this issue. Some have based their arguments on religious beliefs (thou shall not kill or an eye for an eye’) others on moral conviction and others still under economics or emotions. Perhaps we can work together to hold a uniform opinion so that everyone is treated equally before the law.

Isabella Bwiire
Foundation for Human Rights Initiative