Authorities Should Drop Charges Against EACOP Protesters
On November 6, a court in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, approved the trial of twelve activists, eight of whom are students. These individuals are facing charges related to their protests against the planned East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), one of the largest fossil fuel infrastructure projects currently under development globally.
The activists were arrested on August 1 during a demonstration near Stanbic Bank, a Ugandan bank that provides financial support to EACOP. Since then, they have been held in jail, which violates international due process norms. They are being charged with “nuisance on roads.” Brighton Aryampa, a defense lawyer for the protesters, stated, “Ongoing arrests are a way to suppress dissent and instill fear—especially since bail is often denied, so people know they could spend a long time in prison.”
This case represents the latest instance of retaliation against peaceful demonstrations against EACOP. Protests have occurred at various locations in Kampala, including Parliament, embassies, and banks, where activists have urged institutions to withdraw support from the project due to its serious threats to human rights and the environment. Human Rights Watch has previously documented the devastating impacts on the livelihoods of Ugandan families linked to EACOP’s land acquisition process.
The project will also disrupt some of Africa’s most sensitive ecosystems and emit millions of tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Human Rights Watch has reviewed documentation concerning 22 protests, in addition to the one at Stanbic Bank, that have led to prosecutions or police investigations of anti-EACOP protesters in Uganda since 2022. Several cases remain ongoing, while most already adjudicated were deemed to have insufficient evidence or dropped for procedural reasons.
Human Rights Watch has previously documented various ways in which the Ugandan government has cracked down on anti-fossil fuel activists and environmental defenders. This includes harassment, threats, and arbitrarily arresting protesters.
It is essential to recognize that human rights defenders have the right to express their concerns. Instead of harassing EACOP protestors, the Ugandan authorities should listen to these concerns and respect protesters’ rights to freedom of expression and assembly.
Agathe Bounfour, Senior Researcher, Environment and Human Rights
Key Points About the EACOP Protests
- Charges and Arrests: The twelve activists, including eight students, face criminal charges for their peaceful protests against EACOP.
- Violation of Due Process: Their arrest and continued detention violate international due process norms.
- Suppression of Dissent: The Ugandan government’s actions are seen as an attempt to suppress dissent and instill fear among activists.
- Environmental and Human Rights Concerns: EACOP poses significant threats to both the environment and local communities.
- Global Impact: The pipeline will emit millions of tons of carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change.
- Previous Documentation: Human Rights Watch has documented numerous instances of crackdowns on anti-EACOP activists in Uganda.
The Role of International Organizations
International organizations such as Human Rights Watch have played a critical role in highlighting the issues surrounding EACOP. Their research and reports provide essential insights into the environmental and human rights impacts of the project. These organizations also serve as a voice for activists who may otherwise be silenced by local authorities.
Calls for Justice and Accountability
There is a growing call for justice and accountability from both local and international communities. Activists and human rights defenders are urging the Ugandan government to drop the charges against the protesters and to address the concerns raised about EACOP. This includes ensuring that the voices of affected communities are heard and respected.
Conclusion
The situation surrounding the EACOP protests highlights the urgent need for the Ugandan government to uphold the rights of its citizens. By dropping the charges against the protesters and addressing the environmental and human rights concerns associated with EACOP, the government can demonstrate its commitment to justice and the rule of law.