News and insights

Vasundhara Oswal – Statement Upon Release From Arbitrary Detention in Uganda.

31st October 2024

Cherie Blair CBE, KC of Omnia Strategy has said:

“I am pleased that Vasundhara was released on bail last week (on 22 October 2024). This is a belated but much-needed step in the right direction after a traumatising three weeks for her. It is now past time for this saga to come to an end.

With no good reason, Vasundhara was initially detained without charge, repeatedly moved from jail to jail and held in unsanitary conditions without suitable food, medication and proper access to her family or lawyer.

Eventually and in questionable circumstances, Vasundhara was accused of the most serious of crimes without evidence or explanation. These allegations were vehemently denied and, in the last two weeks, the alleged victim has twice sworn under oath that he has been subject to no wrongdoing whatsoever.

In the absence of any evidence whatsoever, the charge against Vasundhara should be dropped immediately. I share the Oswal family’s hope that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions will swiftly move to drop this flawed prosecution. Not only should this help restore faith in the integrity of the Rule of Law in Uganda but address concerns about the heavy-handed treatment of a vulnerable young woman by the authorities.

I look forward to seeing the Public Prosecutor doing the right thing and allowing Vasundhara to rebuild her life and continue the good work she has been doing in Uganda where she has spearheaded PRO Industries’ $150 million investment in a state-of-the-art ENA plant, the largest in East Africa.”

 

On the facts reported, the treatment of Vasundhara amounts to a clear case of arbitrary detention and a breach of her human rights according to domestic, continental and international laws and conventions.

Cherie Blair CBE, KC and Omnia Strategy LLP have been retained as international human rights counsel instructed to secure Vasundhara’s release and uphold her rights.

 

A full pdf press release with supporting notes & factual background is located here