EDITOR
Police in Ntungamo District are actively searching for two teachers who were captured in a viral video torturing a senior two student at Standard College, Rwashamaire Town Council, Kajara County.
The teachers, identified as Director of Studies Anneb Mwesigye and Naboth Twesigye, are accused of subjecting 16-year-old Blair Akampa to severe punishment for allegedly sneaking out of school to eat chapati and beans, commonly known as Kikomando.
Maureen Atuhaire, Commissioner of the Child and Family Protection Department at the Uganda Police Force, confirmed that efforts are underway to arrest the suspects. She stated that a case of torture has been registered at Ntungamo Central Police Station and assured the public that justice will be served.
“It is unfortunate that some teachers still subject learners to corporal punishment in schools,” Atuhaire said, emphasizing that such actions are in direct violation of Section 106A of the Children Act (Amended), 2016, which strictly prohibits corporal punishment. She further highlighted that many students have lost their lives due to similar acts of brutality, calling for collective condemnation of such behavior.
Dr. Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, also expressed his outrage over the incident, condemning it as a clear violation of human rights. He referenced First Lady and Minister of Education Maama Janet Museveni’s firm stance against corporal punishment and called for strict enforcement of policies protecting children in schools.
“This behavior is unacceptable in modern society,” Dr. Barugahara stated. “We must ensure that every learner’s rights and dignity are respected. There are better ways to discipline students without resorting to violence.”
Dr. Barugahara also linked the incident to a broader issue of inhumane treatment in Uganda, citing the recent deportation of a Chinese contractor who was caught on video assaulting a Ugandan casual worker. He commended the swift action taken by authorities in that case and urged similar decisive measures against the teachers involved in this latest case of abuse.
He called upon the Director of Criminal Investigations, AIGP Tom Magambo Rwabudongo, Director of Crime Intelligence, AIGP Christopher Damulira, and the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) to ensure that the suspects are brought to justice.
“Let’s collectively say no to rights violations and uphold the dignity and respect of all individuals in Uganda,” Dr. Barugahara urged.
As the police intensify their search for the suspects, authorities have reassured the public that such incidents will not be tolerated. Parents and guardians are encouraged to report any cases of child abuse in schools to the relevant authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of all learners.
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