Former intelligence officer Gen. David Sejusa has come out in defence of former Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) Chairperson Mariam Wangandya, urging the public to look beyond her recent actions and consider the circumstances that may have influenced her decision to resign.Sejusa said Wangandya should not be quickly judged or labelled based on her recent conduct, arguing that there could be deeper issues behind what has happened.
He said her actions should be examined within the wider context of the pressure and challenges she may have experienced.According to the former spy chief, Wangandya’s long record of public service does not portray her as someone who acts recklessly or without careful thought. He described her as a person who has spent years building a reputation for professionalism and good judgment.Sejusa pointed to Wangandya’s previous roles, including her service as Deputy Inspector General of Government (IGG), her legal career, and her involvement with the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), saying these experiences demonstrate a history of commitment and competence.
He questioned what could have led to such a significant change, especially considering Wangandya’s decision to publicly criticize President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni despite knowing that such statements could attract strong reactions.Sejusa suggested that there may be circumstances that are not yet fully known to the public. He referred to Wangandya’s claims that she and her family had faced threats, questioning who could have been responsible and whether those threats played a role in the events that followed.
The retired general said Wangandya should not be viewed as someone who has lost control or acted without reason. Instead, he described her as a person who may have been pushed into a difficult situation due to intense pressure.“She is not a mad woman. She is someone on edge,” Sejusa said, arguing that her situation requires understanding rather than condemnation.He added that the public discussion should not only focus on the visible events surrounding Wangandya’s resignation but also investigate what he described as the hidden side of the matter.
According to him, there could be deeper factors or forces that contributed to the circumstances leading to her exit.Sejusa said finding answers requires looking beyond the surface and examining the issues that may have affected Wangandya before she made the decision to leave office.He further suggested that President Museveni may already have information about some of the matters surrounding the situation because of his position and access to intelligence.
Wangandya recently resigned as Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission, ending her tenure before completing her expected six-year term. Her departure has sparked public debate, with different opinions emerging about her leadership, her statements, and the circumstances surrounding her resignation.She still had approximately one year and two months remaining in office, with her term expected to end in September 2027. Her decision to leave before the end of her mandate has increased public interest and raised questions about what may have contributed to her early departure.
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