By Gambo Jagindi
The African Union’s (AU) response to coups in Africa is swift and decisive, often condemning such actions within 24 hours. However, this urgency is starkly absent when it comes to addressing the plight of citizens living under oppressive regimes. The case of Uganda is a glaring example of the AU’s selective outrage.
For 39 years, Ugandans have suffered under President Museveni’s government, facing intimidation, violence, and silenced voices. The AU’s silence on the human rights abuses and democratic backsliding in Uganda is deafening. While the organization quickly rallishes to protect power structures, it moves at a snail’s pace to address the suffering of ordinary Africans.
The treatment of Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine, also known as Barbie Kyagulanyi, is a testament to the AU’s priorities. Wine and millions of Ugandans are fighting for their rights, but the AU remains conspicuously quiet. This is not the kind of solidarity Africans need.
The AU must recognize that its mandate is to protect and serve the people, not just those in power. If the organization can act swiftly to condemn coups, it can do the same to protect human rights and democracy. It’s time for the AU to be a union for Africans, not just for those in power.
We stand in solidarity with the people of Uganda and demand that the AU takes concrete actions to address the injustices they face. The world is watching – will the AU listen?
