Demand for Immediate Release and Access to Legal Counsel and Family for Ayeranga Christopher Michael
We, the people of Bunyoro, strongly condemn the unjust and unlawful arrest of Mr. Ayeranga Christopher Michael on Thursday 03rd October 2024, by men in uniform, while he was peacefully enjoying a well-deserved meal in Kampala. Since his arrest, Mr. Ayeranga has been held incommunicado, without access to his family, legal counsel, or any clear explanation for his detention. As of today, he has been held beyond the constitutionally mandated 48 hours without being produced before a court of law, which is a direct violation of his fundamental rights.
Mr. Ayeranga is a young, hard-working man who is cherished by the people of Bunyoro. His unlawful detention is not only an attack on his personal freedoms but is also seen as an affront to the people of Bunyoro, who hold him in high regard.
We hereby demand that the following actions be taken immediately:
*1. Immediate Access to Legal Counsel and Family*
Under Article 23(5)(b) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, a person who is detained has the right to communicate immediately with, and be visited by, their next of kin, lawyer, or any other person authorized by the detainee. The continued incommunicado detention of Mr. Ayeranga contravenes this provision, and we demand that he be granted immediate access to his family and legal representatives.
*2. Respect for the 48-Hour Rule*
Article 23(4)(b) of the Constitution of Uganda provides that a person arrested or detained must be brought before a competent court within 48 hours. Mr. Ayeranga has been held beyond this legally allowed timeframe, further violating his rights and the laws of this nation.
*3. Immediate Release of Mr. Ayeranga Christopher Michael*
Given the unlawful nature of his detention and the failure to adhere to legal procedures, we demand the immediate and unconditional release of Mr. Ayeranga Christopher Michael. Should there be any legitimate charges against him, these should be brought forth in accordance with the law, and he should be given a fair opportunity to defend himself in a competent court.
We stand united as the people of Bunyoro, and we will not tolerate the violation of the rights of any of our people. We demand that the Government of Uganda and all relevant authorities take immediate action to correct this grave injustice.
If no immediate action is taken, we shall pursue all legal avenues available to ensure that Mr. Ayeranga’s rights are upheld, and we shall hold accountable all those responsible for this illegal detention.
Signed,
*MATIA KAJURA AMOOTI*
*CORDINATOR – SET AYERANGA FREE*
