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Long Trial Process
This occurs both in civil and criminal cases, and it results partly
from insufficient number of judges and magistra tes. Appointment
of more judges is under consideration. Sorne accused persons are
on remand for 3 years, it is alleged.
The penalty for rape is death, and if an accused person is likely to
be sentenced to death, witnesses are not likely to corne forth and
you are faced with long remands.
Wrongdoing in the military is prosecuted. The minister was not
aware of torture perpetrated by the army. The 48 hours limitation
period to detention without trial is observed although sometimes
its observance becomes operationally difficult.
Meetings with NGOs
(i)
On Wednesday 15 July I visited United Orphanage School,
which is situated n.ear the Aids Information Centre in
Kampala. The children, numbered in hundreds, 450
according to official records corne from the streets, parents
who have died as a result of war, HIV or similar background.
A selection procedure ensures that the pupils are the rnost
vulnerable and needy among their peers. Apart from basic
education, attempt is made to impart skills that will stand
them in good stead when they leave the school.
At an assembly of pupils, staff and pressmen the pupils
entertained us with songs and dancing. After appeals for
support by staff and pupils, which themselves were preceded
by accounts of the aims, activities and achievements of the
school, I gave a short address encouraging both pupils and
staff to continue their good work after briefly telling them
about the Commission. This is an institution worthy of
support.
Mr. Kayerere Robert, a very energetic member of staff of the
school organised my visit to the school, and I am grateful to
him.
(ii)
Mr. Livingstone Sewanyana, Executive Director of
Foundation for Human Rights Iniatiative received me in his
office in Kampala on Thursday 16 July 1998. He briefed me
on the impressive work of his organisation: seminars,
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