UHRC Awards Shs74M Compensation to Human Rights Abuse Victims in Teso Sub-Region

Bukwo Widow Among Beneficiaries as Tribunal Delivers Justice

The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has awarded Shs74 million in compensation to victims of human rights violations in the Teso Sub-region. The tribunal, chaired by Mariam Wangadya, commenced its hearing sessions with a series of rulings on previously heard cases.

Among the beneficiaries is Phylis Chepkwemoi, a 42-year-old widow from Kapsiywo, Bukwo District, who was awarded Shs60 million. 

Chepkwemoi had petitioned the Commission on behalf of her six children following the brutal murder of her husband, Gilbert Cherotwo, allegedly by Anti-Stock Unit police and UPDF soldiers attached to the Seredet detadetach.

According to the Commission's findings, on November 4, 2004, at approximately 2:30 PM, 17 armed soldiers—carrying both sticks and guns—confronted Cherotwo while he was working in his garden near their home. They ordered him to sit down, leading to an incident that ultimately resulted in his death.

The compensation ruling marks a significant step in addressing long-standing grievances related to human rights abuses in the region. The UHRC tribunal will continue hearing similar cases in its ongoing efforts to deliver justice to affected individuals and communities.