Uganda Suspends 54 Aid Groups; Groups Say They Are Being Harassed

KAMPALA, UGANDA - Authorities in Uganda have suspended 54 aid groups, accusing them of failing to comply with regulations. In return, the heads of the accused groups say they are being harassed for political purposes. 

Addressing journalists Friday in Kampala, Steven Okello, the executive director for the National Bureau of Non-Government Organizations, said the 54 NGOs were not complying with the country's NGO law.  He said some organizations are operating with expired permits, some have failed to file annual tax returns, and others are operating without registering. He said all must halt their operations with immediate effect.  Okello, speaking at Uganda's Media Center, cited examples.