Uganda’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Okello Oryem, has confirmed that the government is engaged in negotiations aimed at securing a reduced sentence for a Ugandan woman reportedly facing the death penalty in Syria.
Speaking to local media, Oryem said diplomatic channels have been activated to seek clemency or a commutation of the sentence.
“We are in discussions with the authorities there to see how the sentence can be reduced to a lighter penalty,” Oryem said, adding that the government is treating the matter with urgency.
Diplomatic Engagement
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uganda is working through diplomatic and consular mechanisms to follow up on the case. Officials have not publicly disclosed the identity of the woman or the specific charges she faces, citing the sensitivity of ongoing negotiations.
Oryem emphasised that Uganda remains committed to protecting its citizens abroad, particularly migrant workers who may find themselves in legal distress.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that Ugandans facing challenges abroad receive the necessary consular support within the framework of international law,” he noted.
Migrant Worker Concerns
Uganda has, in recent years, expanded labour export agreements, particularly to the Middle East, leading to increased scrutiny over the welfare and legal protection of migrant workers.
Civil society groups have frequently called for stronger pre-departure orientation, legal safeguards, and bilateral agreements to prevent exploitation and legal vulnerability.
While Syria is not a major destination for Ugandan migrant workers compared to Gulf states, the government has acknowledged that some Ugandans travel independently in search of employment.
Push for Clemency
Under international diplomatic practice, governments may petition foreign states for clemency or sentence commutation for their nationals, especially in capital cases.
Oryem said Uganda is pursuing “all available diplomatic avenues” to ensure the woman’s sentence is reconsidered.
The case has drawn public attention in Uganda, with calls for intensified diplomatic engagement to safeguard the rights and lives of citizens facing severe penalties abroad.
