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Rwandan-born Ugandans are demanding an end to alleged discrimination after presenting a petition to Parliament. The Council for Abavandimwe, representing Banyarwanda citizens, accuses Ugandan authorities of denying them national IDs and passports.
Member of Parliament Hon Gonzaga Sewungu presented the petition, stating Ugandan Banyarwanda "have not only been denied passports and national identity cards but the previous passports held by these persons have been confiscated." This, he claims, inflicts "pain, suffering and psychological torture."
Sewungu further alleges these ID restrictions hinder employment opportunities. He cites cases where seeking medical treatment abroad was impossible due to lack of proper documentation.
The Council's Chairman, Frank Gashumba, applauded Parliament Speaker Rt Hon Anita Among for allowing the petition. He expressed hope due to the "enthusiasm of the majority of Members of Parliament" who supported their fight against "segregation and violation of their Citizenship rights."
Gashumba elaborated on the challenges, accusing the National Identification Registration Authority (NIRA) of withholding IDs and the passport office of denying passports. This, he claims, renders some Banyarwanda "stateless" and unemployable. He offered particularly severe criticism, alleging some have even died due to travel restrictions caused by the lack of documentation.
The Council vows to present "shocking revelations about the injustices our people go through on a daily basis" before a Parliamentary Committee. This committee has 45 days to address the concerns.
Tensions between the Ugandan government and the Banyarwanda community have existed for some time. While some Banyarwanda arrived during colonial times, others fled Rwanda during periods of unrest. This influx has caused friction, with some Ugandans alleging the newcomers strain resources or hold dual loyalties.
The Committee now faces the challenge of investigating these claims and ensuring equal rights for all Ugandan citizens. The next 45 days will be critical in determining the future for Ugandan Banyarwanda.