KAMPALA, UGANDA: 31 DECEMBER 2025— The Board of the Centre for Constitutional Governance (CCG) has issued a strong statement condemning the arrest of its Executive Director, Dr. Sarah Bireete, and demanding her immediate and unconditional release.
Dr. Bireete, a prominent human rights lawyer and constitutional expert, was arrested by a joint force of the Uganda Police and the Army on the afternoon of Tuesday, December 30, 2025.
Details of the Arrest
According to witnesses and social media updates from Dr. Bireete herself, security forces surrounded her residence at approximately 4:00 PM before taking her into custody. Later, Police through Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, Rachel Kawaala, confirmed the arrest later that evening, stating that Dr. Bireete is being held in police custody and will be “arraigned before court in due course”.
CCG Board’s Reaction and Position:
The CCG Board led by Godber Tumushabe has characterized the arrest as an act of judicial harassment and an attempt to stifle civil society ahead of the 2026 general elections. In their statement, the Board highlighted several key points:
Targeting of Activism: The Board believes the arrest is directly linked to Dr. Bireete’s work in monitoring electoral integrity and her vocal criticism of security forces’ involvement in politics. They argue the “siege” of her home and subsequent detention without immediate charge violate fundamental constitutional protections of freedom of expression and association.
Call to Action: The Board is calling on the Uganda Human Rights Commission UHRC, the international community, and fellow Civil Society Organizations to demand accountability for what they describe as a “shrinking civic space” in Uganda.
Context of the Crackdown
Dr. Bireete’s arrest comes just weeks after she delivered a high-profile speech condemning what she termed “escalating lawlessness” by state security agencies. She has been a consistent critic of the regime and has recently focused on mobilizing citizens for the upcoming 2026 electoral process.
CCG which Bireete heads is a regional Constitutional Watchdog based in Uganda & reaches out to countries in the Eastern & Horn of Africa.
As of Wednesday, December 31, 2025, no official charges have been publicly filed against her, though sources suggest the arrest may be tied to “controversial remarks” made on social media.
