Locals in Kisoro district have called for translation of the Ugandan Constitution into local languages including their own Rufumbira dialect, to enhance their knowledge of national laws.
A number of residents attending a ‘baraza’ public meeting yesterday said they do not feel comfortable the National Constitution in English, a language many Ugandans do not understand.
They said this makes it possible for people to commit crimes out of ignorance. They also said courts use English, which a number of people do not understand.
The concerns came out during the meeting held to sensitize locals on human rights, at the Mayor’s Garden in Kisoro Municipality.
The meeting was conducted by the Uganda Human Rights Commission, Mbarara regional Office.
Theopista Twembi, the regional Human Rights officer said at the meeting that although English is a national language, Ugandans are right to demand for the constitution in their language, a process which the government has already started.
Currently the Uganda Law Review Commission is translating the constitution into 5 local languages, including Rukiga/Runyankole. She said however that the Rufumbira version would come later.
Citizens were sensitized on their human rights that include justice, education, owning property, being free from slavery and torture, among others.