The European Parliament has questioned the credibility of Uganda’s January 2026 general elections and called for an independent investigation into alleged crimes against humanity in the country.
In a resolution passed on Wednesday, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) cited reports of “abuses, widespread intimidation, electoral fraud, violence, and a nationwide internet blackout” as factors that they said undermined the integrity of the electoral process. The lawmakers urged Ugandan authorities to allow impartial international oversight to ensure accountability.
“The European Parliament is deeply concerned about the conditions under which the January elections were conducted, which raise serious doubts about their legitimacy,” the resolution stated.
Observers and human rights groups have documented cases of political harassment, suppression of dissent, and restrictions on media and communication channels during the electoral period. The internet shutdown in particular drew widespread criticism from civil society actors, who said it limited access to information and undermined transparency.
The European Parliament’s position adds to growing international scrutiny of Uganda’s human rights record and the prevailing political climate. Lawmakers stressed that any credible democratic process must safeguard freedoms of expression, assembly and the press.
By press time, Ugandan authorities had not issued an official response to the resolution. However, in previous instances, government officials have dismissed similar international criticism as interference in the country’s domestic affairs.
