Show solidarity with and support Human Rights Defender Sarah Bireete while she is in custody

Dr. Sarah Bireete is a respected Ugandan human rights lawyer, civil society leader, and election observer. On 30 December 2025, she was arrested without formal charges and has since been remanded to prison until 28 January 2026.

Her detention has placed a sudden and heavy burden on her family, who are now facing significant legal costs and financial strain. This fundraising campaign seeks to support Dr. Bireete’s legal defense and ensure that her family and dependents are cared for while she remains in custody.

Dr. Sarah Bireete has devoted her career to defending constitutional governance, human rights, and democratic participation. She is the Executive Director of the Centre for Constitutional Governance (CCG) and serves in leadership roles across regional and global election observation networks.

She was arrested on 30 December 2025 and detained for several days until 2 January 2026, when she was charged in relation to alleged unlawful access to and disclosure of information from the National Voters’ Register, even as the prosecution acknowledged that investigations were still ongoing. Despite this, she was remanded to Luzira Prison until 21 January 2026. She has not yet been convicted of any offence.

Her family is now managing urgent and unexpected challenges, including legal fees, daily living expenses, and the care of her children while she is in custody. In addition, Dr. Bireete’s personal bank accounts, including those used to manage household and family expenses, have been frozen, leaving her dependents without access to essential funds. Support from friends, colleagues, and the broader community is critical at this time to ensure they can navigate this difficult situation.

All funds raised (10,000 EUR) will be used to support:

Dr. Bireete appeared in court on 21 January 2026 for a bail hearing, but she is now remanded until 28 January 2026. Support is needed now to ensure her dependents can manage this unexpected and difficult situation.

Dr. Bireete has dedicated her life to supporting others and defending human rights. Today, she needs our solidarity and support.

Any contribution, large or small, will make a meaningful difference. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this page to help spread the word.

Thank you for helping Dr. Sarah Bireete and her family during this challenging time.