By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu
KAMPALA
Human rights lawyer Dr. Sarah Bireete, executive director of the Center for Constitutional Governance, has been granted bail after spending nearly a month in detention on charges of unlawfully disclosing voters’ personal data.
On Wednesday, Buganda Road Chief Magistrates Court, presided over by Magistrate Winnie Nankya Jatiko, approved bail terms requiring Dr. Bireete to pay Shs. 1 million in cash, provide sureties worth Shs. 10 million non-cash, and deposit her passport to restrict foreign travel.
Dr. Bireete was arrested on December 30, 2025, just days before Uganda’s January 15 elections, sparking criticism from civil society groups who argued her detention was politically motivated.
The Uganda Law Society, alongside international watchdogs such as Amnesty International, welcomed the ruling as a victory for due process. Supporters gathered outside the court, chanting in celebration and calling for greater protection of civil liberties in the country.
Her case has drawn widespread attention, with rights advocates warning that the charges reflect a broader pattern of silencing government critics ahead of elections.
Dr. Bireete is expected to return to court later this year as proceedings continue as per the schedule.
