(MENAFN) The UN’s top human rights official voiced strong concern on Wednesday over what he characterized as a growing campaign of repression against Uganda’s political opposition and media in the weeks leading up to January’s national elections, according to reports. He called on authorities to guarantee full protection of human rights throughout the electoral period.

Volker Turk said in a statement that there were "credible reports" indicating that more than 550 people — including members and supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) — have been arrested since the beginning of the year. Over 300 of those detentions occurred after election campaigning began in September, with many individuals still being held on accusations such as public nuisance, disobeying lawful orders, assault, obstruction, and incitement of violence, the statement noted.

The statement also pointed out that security forces have repeatedly intervened in NUP rallies, sending heavily armed personnel to campaign sites. Last week, they allegedly fired live ammunition in the eastern town of Iganga, killing at least one person and injuring three others.

Turk stated that security units have additionally used "tear gas, whips, batons, water cannon and chemical irritants among other weapons" to break up gatherings of supporters.

"It is deeply regrettable that election campaigns" — the remainder of the original quote was not provided, so it remains unchanged here.

If you want me to complete or adapt the ending once you provide the rest of the quote, feel free to send it!

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