Statement on the Violent Incidents in Kiryandongo (Bweyale) Refugee Camp in Uganda (ENG)
Sudan Human Right Defenders Coalition (Sudan Defenders)
Statement on the Violent Incidents in Kiryandongo (Bweyale) Refugee Camp in Uganda
The Sudan Defenders Coalition is following with deep concern reports of the escalating violence in Kiryandongo (Bweyale) Refugee Camp in Uganda, which has resulted in the deaths and injuries of dozens of Sudanese and South Sudanese civilians. In this context, the Coalition declares the following:
First, Condemnation and Moral stance: The Coalition strongly condemns these attacks, which violate the sanctity of safe havens, and affirms its full solidarity with the victims and those affected. It also recalls that refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) have already fled the scourge of conflict; necessary measures must be taken to prevent them from being exposed to further conflict.
Second, Reaffirmation of Humanitarian Principles: Humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence should not be infringed. Shared suffering does not justify divisions, and the human dignity of individuals who have lost their homes must be protected, regardless of their affiliations.
Third, Urgent Demands for Stakeholders: To the Ugandan government, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and relevant actors:
- Ensure immediate and effective protection for camp residents.
- Establish an independent commission of inquiry to uncover and address the root causes of the incidents, ensure accountability, and prevent their recurrence.
- Activate early warning and rapid response mechanisms.
- Provide urgent medical, psychological, and social services, with special attention to the injured, survivors, and the most vulnerable groups (including women and children).
To civil society organizations, religious and community leaders, and youth:
- Lead immediate community reconciliation efforts and facilitate constructive dialogues to address tensions.
- Promote social cohesion and reject all forms of discrimination based on ethnicity or nationality.
- Remind the community of the negative, systemic impact of violence on the entire community.
- Call for adherence to the values of peaceful coexistence and the rejection of acts of revenge.