Rights Day: Tribute to Kaggwa, former chairperson of UHRC

Today marks the International Human Rights Day.
As we celebrate and recognise the important work of human rights defenders in Uganda and around the world, this is also a moment to honour and pay tribute to those who are no longer among us.
Here in Uganda, we recently lost one such tireless human rights defender - Med S. K. Kaggwa, the former chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission. His sudden demise on November 20, 2019 left us in shock and deep sadness.
We have lost a true friend, a brother, and a passionate and committed advocate for human rights in Uganda and beyond.
In his humble, open-minded manner, Kaggwa engaged across the country with people from all walks of life, including victims of human rights violations and abuses.
He took their lived experiences to heart, and did not shy away from conveying their concerns to those in positions of authority. Being a true bridge-builder, Kaggwa worked tirelessly, selflessly and determinedly to improve human rights in Uganda.
His commitment and leadership was instrumental in building strong partnerships with various stakeholders, and bringing partners on board to deliver concrete improvements.
Kaggwa’s contribution to human rights extended beyond Uganda, as he eloquently engaged with regional and international fora, including the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights, the Human Rights Council, and the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions. His absence will be felt also in these circles.
The development partners of the Democratic Governance Facility – Austria, Denmark, the European Union, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden – and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, wish to extend our deepest condolences to Kaggwa’s family and friends, as well as to the commissioners and all staff of the Uganda Human Rights Commission.
We are honoured to have known and engaged with Kaggwa. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us in our collective efforts to support Uganda in advancing human rights for all.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.