Human rights lawyer and prominent civic activist Dr. Sarah Bireete, the Executive Director of the Centre for Constitutional Governance (CCG), has been granted bail several weeks after her arrest and remand to Luzira Prison in a case that ignited intense public debate and deep concern among civil society actors both locally and internationally.
Dr. Bireete was released on bail on Wednesday morning after the court set non-cash sureties of Shs10 million. In addition, she was required to deposit Shs1 million in cash as part of the bail requirements. The ruling brought temporary relief to her family, colleagues, and supporters who have been vocal in demanding her release since her detention late last year.
As part of the bail conditions, the court also ordered Dr. Bireete to surrender her passport, effectively restricting her from travelling outside the country while the case remains before court. The travel restriction underscores the seriousness with which the court is treating the matter, even as it allowed her conditional freedom.
The CCG Executive Director was arrested late last year and subsequently charged with offences linked to the alleged unlawful access and handling of voters’ data, contrary to Uganda’s data protection laws. Prosecutors claim that her actions violated regulations governing the collection and use of sensitive personal information.
However, Dr. Bireete has consistently denied the charges, insisting that all her actions were lawful and fully aligned with her organisation’s mandate to promote constitutional governance, transparency, and electoral accountability.
Her arrest and continued detention quickly drew sharp criticism from local and international human rights organisations, legal experts, and opposition figures. Critics argued that the case was politically motivated and part of a broader effort to shrink civic space, especially during a tense and highly charged election period.
Several organisations described her prolonged detention as unnecessary and punitive, warning that it sent a chilling message to civil society actors engaged in governance and electoral work. Many repeatedly called for her immediate release on bail, citing her standing in society and the non-violent nature of the charges.
News of Dr. Bireete’s release was warmly welcomed by civil society actors, colleagues, and supporters across the country. Many described it as a relief and a small but significant victory for the rule of law, while cautioning that the legal battle is far from over.
They emphasized that her case highlights broader concerns about constitutional freedoms and the operating environment for civic organisations in Uganda.
Despite securing her temporary freedom, Dr. Bireete remains subject to strict bail conditions and is expected to continue appearing in court as the proceedings move forward.
Legal observers and rights advocates say the outcome of the trial will be closely watched, as it could set an important precedent for civic engagement, data protection, and human rights advocacy in Uganda, particularly at a time when the role of civil society in democratic processes remains under intense scrutiny.
