Former minister and constitutional activist Dr Miria Koburunga Matembe has urged Ugandans to overcome fear and boldly speak out against injustices and challenges affecting the country, saying citizens have a responsibility to defend truth, justice and human dignity regardless of the difficulties they may face.

Matembe made the remarks while reflecting on her recent detention experience and the broader issues surrounding human rights, governance and constitutionalism in Uganda.

She said that despite going through what she described as a painful ordeal, she would not allow fear to silence her because her commitment to justice goes beyond personal experiences.

The former minister said her faith in God gave her strength during difficult moments and encouraged Ugandans to remain courageous even when faced with intimidation or challenges.

She emphasised that citizens should not abandon their responsibility to speak against wrongdoing simply because they fear consequences.

“Stop fearing; stand up firmly in our God. Speak up and let us redeem our nation from the calamity it is going through,” Matembe said, urging Ugandans to unite and work towards building a country where justice, freedom and accountability are respected.

Matembe explained that her decision to continue speaking out was influenced by her long history of public service and her involvement in shaping Uganda’s constitutional framework. She said she has spent decades advocating for democracy, women’s rights, equality and respect for human dignity.

The former minister recalled her role as a member of the Uganda Constitutional Commission that collected views from citizens across the country before the drafting of the 1995 Constitution.

She said the process exposed her to the hopes and struggles of ordinary Ugandans who wanted a society based on fairness and equal opportunities.

She said her experiences during the constitutional-making process made it difficult for her to remain silent whenever she witnesses situations that she believes undermine the rights of citizens. Matembe argued that leaders and citizens alike must ensure that the principles contained in the Constitution are respected.

“It is therefore difficult for me to remain silent when a young person is treated unfairly for holding alternative political views, when a pregnant mother cannot access basic health services, when young girls cannot access quality education, or when citizens are kidnapped by rogue security operatives without accountability,” she said.

Matembe said silence in the face of injustice can allow problems to continue growing, calling on Ugandans to participate in protecting the values of democracy and human rights. She urged citizens to use peaceful and lawful means to demand accountability from institutions and leaders.

The former minister also spoke about her alleged arrest and detention, saying the experience strengthened rather than weakened her determination to continue advocating for justice. She claimed she faced harsh conditions after her arrest and relied on prayer to remain strong during that period.

“I was starved to near death. I resorted to prayer because I knew my God would rescue me,” Matembe said, explaining that her faith helped her survive what she described as one of the most difficult moments of her life.

Matembe thanked lawyers, civil society organisations, young people and other Ugandans who supported her during her legal challenges. She said the support showed that many citizens still care about justice and the protection of human rights.

She also questioned the treatment of citizens who express different political opinions, saying a democratic country should allow people to freely share their views without fear.

Matembe called for stronger institutions that protect all Ugandans regardless of their political beliefs or social status.

The former minister, who previously served in the National Resistance Movement government, said her political background did not prevent her from raising concerns about issues affecting the country. She said supporting a government or political movement should not mean ignoring problems that require attention.

“I who embraced the NRM revolution am a victim of illegal military raids on my home, military abduction and trumped-up charges. Then who is safe in Uganda?” Matembe asked, expressing concern about the experiences of citizens facing legal and security challenges.

Despite her criticism, Matembe said she remains hopeful that Uganda can overcome its difficulties and restore confidence in its institutions. She called on leaders and citizens to work together to protect constitutional order and promote justice.

She encouraged young Ugandans not to be intimidated into silence, saying they have a major role to play in shaping the country’s future. According to Matembe, the next generation must defend values such as honesty, accountability and respect for human rights.

Matembe said Uganda’s progress depends on citizens who are willing to stand for what is right while maintaining peace and unity. She urged people to avoid fear and instead use their voices responsibly to demand positive change.

She concluded by calling on Ugandans to remain strong in their faith and commitment to the country, saying courage and unity are necessary to overcome national challenges. Matembe insisted that speaking against injustice is not an act of rebellion but a responsibility for every citizen who loves their country.

The veteran politician and activist said her journey has taught her that difficult moments should not stop people from fighting for justice.

She vowed to continue advocating for human rights, democracy and constitutional values, saying she will not keep quiet whenever she sees what she considers unfair treatment or suffering among Ugandans.