Former intelligence officer Gen. David Sejusa has come to the defence of former Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) Chairperson Mariam Wangandya, arguing that her recent actions should be viewed in the context of the pressures she may have been facing rather than as evidence of instability.Speaking about Wangandya’s resignation, Sejusa said he was troubled by the public reaction that has sought to portray her conduct as irrational.
In his view, such conclusions overlook her long record of service and professionalism in both the legal and public sectors.He noted that Wangandya has spent many years building a respected career, serving as Deputy Inspector General of Government (IGG), working with the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), and later leading the Uganda Human Rights Commission. According to Sejusa, her history does not reflect someone known for impulsive or reckless behaviour.
The retired general said that because of Wangandya’s professional background, it is important to ask what may have happened behind the scenes before reaching conclusions about her recent conduct. He argued that people do not simply change overnight without underlying factors contributing to their actions.Sejusa particularly pointed to Wangandya’s public criticism involving President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, saying she would have understood the significance of making such remarks.
For him, the issue is not only what was said but also what circumstances may have led her to speak out in that manner.He also referenced claims by Wangandya that she and members of her family had received threats. Sejusa questioned who could have been responsible for those threats and whether they may have played a role in the events that ultimately led to her departure from office.According to Sejusa, the situation calls for deeper reflection rather than quick judgment.
He insisted that Wangandya’s behaviour appears more consistent with someone dealing with extraordinary stress than with someone who has lost touch with reality.“She is not losing her mind, she is under pressure,” Sejusa said, maintaining that her actions should be understood within the broader circumstances surrounding her resignation.The former spy chief further suggested that there could be aspects of the story that have not yet been revealed publicly. He argued that examining those hidden factors could provide a better understanding of what happened and why Wangandya chose to leave office before completing her term.
Sejusa said his interest extends beyond the public events that have already been discussed. He believes there may be other issues operating behind the scenes that deserve attention and investigation.He also suggested that President Museveni may already be aware of some of the underlying matters because of the information available to him through state institutions.Wangandya recently resigned as Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission, bringing an unexpected end to a tenure that was due to continue until September 2027. Her decision to step down with more than a year remaining on her term has sparked widespread debate and speculation about the circumstances that may have contributed to her exit.As public discussion continues, Sejusa has called for a closer examination of the events surrounding Wangandya’s resignation, insisting that understanding the pressures she may have faced is essential to understanding the full story.
