Human Rights Watch has renewed its call for an independent and transparent investigation into the death of businessman Robert Kabera in Mpigi, Uganda, saying accountability is key to maintaining public trust.
THE CASE:
Robert Kabera, a Rwandan national who had lived in exile since 2020, was found dead in Mpigi district earlier this month. Ugandan police say the investigation is ongoing, with detectives continuing to gather evidence and await forensic results. No arrests have been announced.
Kabera had previously worked as a military trainer and later as an artist. His family says he had expressed concerns about his safety before his death.
HRW POSITION:
HRW said in a statement on Monday that Ugandan authorities should allow independent observers and publish findings once the investigation is complete.
“Transparency and due process are essential,” the organization said. “An independent inquiry would help address public concern.”
HRW cited its 2023 report “Join Us or Die: Rwanda’s Extraterritorial Repression,” which documented patterns of alleged harassment of Rwandan exiles. The report noted that exiles reported surveillance and intimidation. HRW has said Kabera’s case should be viewed within broader concerns about protection of exiles, but has not claimed direct knowledge of who was responsible for his death.
KAGAME AND GOVERNMENT OF RWANDA:
The Government of Rwanda has not issued a specific statement on Kabera’s death. President Paul Kagame has in past years denied allegations that Rwanda conducts operations against dissidents abroad, saying Rwanda respects sovereignty and that accusations are politically motivated.
Rwandan officials have previously said exiled opposition groups pose security concerns, but have denied involvement in unlawful acts.
REGIONAL IMPLICATIONS:
Analysts say the case highlights ongoing tensions around protection of exiles in East Africa. Uganda hosts many Rwandan exiles, and relations between Kigali and Kampala have fluctuated in recent years, including a border closure from 2019-2022.
Uganda and Rwanda have since resumed trade talks and security cooperation, but cases like Kabera’s test that progress.
HRW said it will continue monitoring the police probe and urged East African Community members to uphold commitments to protection of persons on their territories.
KEY POINTS:
– Kabera died in Mpigi — police investigation ongoing, forensic pending
– HRW calls for independent inquiry, cites need for transparency
– No official statement from Kigali on this specific case
– President Kagame has previously denied involvement in extraterritorial actions
– No evidence presented linking any state to the death
WHAT’S NEXT:
Police are expected to release preliminary findings in coming days. HRW plans to submit recommendations for independent monitoring.
