Case Reference:

RPD FILE: VC3-15820

UCI: 1120568910
Applicant: Ndagaano Teopista Catheryn
D.O.B: 11th October 1982
 STATEMENT OF CLARIFICATION

Identification and Background:

My name is Ndagaano Teopista Catheryn, born on October 11, 1982, in Nakasozi, Buddo,
Kyegegwa Town Council, Wakiso district, Uganda. I am a mother of four and hold a
Bachelor's degree from Makerere University. I have been subjected to ongoing
persecution, threats, and social isolation rooted in accusations stemming from a complex
personal crisis that began unfolding in 2019.

Basis of Claim:

In early 2019, during a strained phase of my relationship, I became pregnant under

contentious circumstances. The father of the child accused me of infidelity and
subsequently denied paternity, leading to public humiliation and severe social stigma
([Kampala Express] (https://kampalaexpress.com/ndaganos-hidden-pain-a-fight-
against-domestic-violence-and-lgbtq-persecution )). The accusations led to verbal threats
and social isolation, deeply affecting my mental health and safety.

Following the escalation of threats, I attempted to relocate within Uganda, moving to

several regions in hopes of escaping the direct threats and societal rejection I faced.
However, the stigma followed, exacerbated by the father's influential family connections
within local communities.

Continued Persecution and International Relocation:

My efforts to find peace in Uganda were futile, leading me to seek refuge in Dubai in late
2019. Despite the physical distance, harassment from Uganda continued through digital
means, with threats that intensified over time.
In 2021, amidst deteriorating mental health and ongoing threats, I moved again, seeking
temporary safety in Canada where I currently reside under short-term protection. This
has provided a brief respite, but the lack of a permanent solution leaves me and my
children in limbo.

Legal Efforts and Documentation:

Attempts to resolve the paternity legally were stymied by non-cooperation from the
father and indifference from the Ugandan authorities, who showed bias due to familial
ties ([Human Rights Watch](https://www.hrw.org/africa/uganda )). This lack of support
underscores the systemic issues within the judicial system that fail to protect women and
children in domestic matters.

Personal Experiences and Media Coverage:

The public nature of my case attracted media attention, highlighting the intersection of
domestic violence and LGBTQ persecution in Uganda, as documented by Kampala
Express in their detailed report on my situation. This coverage, while raising awareness,
also increased my risk of retaliation and further violence ([Kampala Express]
(https://kampalaexpress.com/ndaganos-hidden-pain-a-fight-against-domestic-violence-
and-lgbtq-persecution )).

Conclusion:

The ongoing persecution, documented threats, and systemic failures I have experienced
underscore the impossibility of living safely in Uganda. The widespread societal stigma,
coupled with a hostile legal environment towards women in my situation, makes it
necessary for me to seek asylum in Canada.
Given the detailed accounts and evidence of my persecution, I respectfully request that
the court consider granting me permanent asylum to ensure the safety and dignity of
myself and my children. This plea aligns with the principles outlined in the Refugee
Convention, supported by credible fears of continued persecution and harm.