Britain cuts aid over concerns about democracy

The United Kingdom is to cut 15 million pounds (US $26.4 million) in direct assistance to Uganda due to concerns about democracy in the East African country ahead of general elections in February 2006. "I am concerned by recent developments in Uganda and I have decided to cut 15 million pounds from our planned budget support this year and postpone a decision on whether to provide a further five million pounds until after the elections," Hilary Benn, UK secretary for international development, said on Tuesday. The move came a day after Sweden joined a growing list of European donors who have cut aid to Uganda amid questions about President Yoweri Museveni's commitment to democratic reforms. The government however maintains that it is committed to "free and fair" elections and that the donor community is a "victim of the opposition propaganda". Museveni's government has been widely criticised for the arrest and prosecution of Kiiza Besigye, the leader of the opposition Forum for Democratic Change. Widely seen as Museveni's main rival in the polls, he is charged with treason, terrorism, rape and illegal possession of weapons. Besigye denies the charges. He will go on trial in January 2006 and if convicted, could face the death penalty. His candidacy in the polls, which the Uganda Electoral Commission approved last week despite his being in custody, would also be nullified. Britain also questioned Uganda's commitment to the independence of the judiciary, freedom of the press and freedom of association following Besigye's arrest and trial. In addition it pointed to delays in meeting timetables for political transition, continued state funding of Museveni's Movement party and "a significant overrun on public administration expenditure". Benn said the funds would now be channelled to the United Nations relief effort in northern Uganda, where a 19-year-old rebellion has displaced 1.7 million people. In April, Britain became the first major foreign donor to suspend aid to Uganda, citing the slow pace of reform. Similar measures were taken by Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden.