By Johnson Kanyesige
People living with HIV/AIDS in Hoima City and Hoima district, have petitioned different leaders, over what they call forced HIV testing and discrimination as well as unfair dismissal of one of the employees of M/S Suma company.
In a petition dated September 23, 2024, and seen by Spice FM, the individuals united together under their forum “Hoima district forum of People Living with HIV/AIDS Network” (HODIFOPHAN) say Daphine Kobusinge who is a member of the forum was forced to undergo HIV/AIDs testing something that led to her unfair dismissal by the company that was awarded a contract to construct Hoima multipurpose stadium.
Kobusinge at a time of her dismissal, was working in the laundry department at the construction site located in Kyarwiru cell Hoima East division in Hoima City.
“We express our deep concern and objection to the forced HIV testing and subsequent dismissal of Daphine, an employee at Summa, a Turkish company. The gross violation of her human rights and Uganda’s labor laws highlights the urgent need for enforcing policies that protect workers from discrimination” reads part of the petition.
They, HODIFOPHAN is demanding for Daphine’s immediate reinstatement and compensation without any loss of benefits or salary. They also want her compensation for the trauma, loss of income and emotional distress caused by the unlawful termination and the violation of her rights.
They also want SUMMA and all other companies operating in Uganda to adopt and implement comprehensive HIV workplace policies as well as conducte regular training and awareness programs for all employees.
They also demand the company to issue a public apology to Daphine for the unjust treatment that affected her life in general.
Robinah Tibakanya, an HIV activist condemns the act adding that they are determined to sue the company.
Dr Joseph Ruyonga, the Hoima West division Member of Parliament during Wednesday plenary chaired by Thomas Tayebwa, the deputy Speaker condemned the act of subjecting casual laborers working in some departments in Suuma Company, to involuntary HIV testing without informed consent.
He added that the act of discrimination driven by ignorance and stigma surrounding HIV underscores the broader systemic issue with some companies operating in Uganda adding that it is both illegal and unethical to dismiss an individual based on their HIV status.
