# Chapter Four Uganda


## Posts

- [Statement on the anniversary of the abduction and killing of Chief Justice Benedicto Kiwanuka](https://chapterfouruganda.org/statement-on-the-anniversary-of-the-abduction-and-killing-of-chief-justice-benedicto-kiwanuka/): (Kampala, Uganda / September 22, 2025) – Today, Chapter Four Uganda solemnly marks the anniversary of the abduction and tragic murder of Uganda’s first Chief Justice, Benedicto Kiwanuka. His life and ultimate sacrifice stand as a powerful testament to the enduring values of freedom, the rule of law, and accountability that we must emulate to address the challenges we continue to face today. On September 21, 1972, Chief Justice Kiwanuka was forcibly abducted from his chambers at the High Court building in Kampala by government security forces. He has never been seen since then. He was targeted because of his […]
- [Reject regressive clauses in Sexual Offences Bill](https://chapterfouruganda.org/reject-regressive-clauses-in-sexual-offences-bill/): Proposed law promotes hatred and discrimination, criminalises consensual sex  (For Immediate Release / Kampala, May 8, 2021) – The Parliament of the Republic of Uganda passed the Sexual Offences Bill on May 4, 2021. The final text of the legislation has not been published, nor has the President assented to the law. But reports gleaned from parliamentary proceedings, committee reports, press coverage, and other related documents point to a concerning and unjustifiable limitation of fundamental rights and freedoms.  Click here to download the PDF version of this statement Chapter Four will take a deep analysis of human rights implication of the […]
- [Statement on the office break-in at Chapter Four Uganda](https://chapterfouruganda.org/statement-on-the-office-break-in-at-chapter-four-uganda/): Conduct transparent and conclusive investigations on NGO office break-ins to end attacks  (March 18, 2021 / Kampala, Uganda) On the morning of Thursday March 18, 2021 at about 04:10 AM, unknown assailants broke into the offices of Chapter Four Uganda in Kololo, Kampala. The assailants accessed the reception area of the office through the window and made off with one office desktop computer.  During the attack, the intruders attempted to access other sections of the office but the security alarm system at the premises which was triggered at 04:38 AM, prompting them to escape.  We have filed a case of office […]
- [Uganda: Joint civil society statement on enforced disappearances](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-joint-civil-society-statement-on-enforced-disappearances/): Since November 2020, Uganda has seen a wave of arrest and detention of its citizens by security operatives in the run-up to its 2021 elections. On 4 March 2021, the Minister of Internal Affairs released a list of 177 names to Parliament of missing Ugandans in detention following arrest. Earlier, in response to a public outcry over the disappearances, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni had acknowledged the arrests of 242. On its count, the National Unity Platform (NUP) reports 680 persons missing. Most people report being abducted and held incommunicado, i.e. in unknown, unofficial or inaccessible places hence denying them access to their next of […]
- [7th statement on the frivolous charges against Nicholas Opiyo](https://chapterfouruganda.org/7th-statement-on-the-frivolous-charges-against-nicholas-opiyo/): We continue to demand that the fabricated and malicious charges be dropped  Earlier today, Monday January 11, 2021, Mr. Nicholas Opiyo appeared before the Anti-Corruption Magistrate’s Court for the mention of the case in which he faces trumped-up money laundering charges. The State Attorney representing the Director of Public Prosecutions informed court that the investigations were incomplete and requested for an adjournment. Court adjourned the matter to January 28, 2020.  We find it deeply troubling that the State initiated criminal proceedings against Mr. Opiyo before investigations would reveal any evidence to sustain the said charges.  We maintain that Mr. Opiyo […]
- [6th statement on the frivolous charges against Nicholas Opiyo](https://chapterfouruganda.org/6th-statement-on-the-frivolous-charges-against-nicholas-opiyo/): We continue to demand that the fabricated and malicious charges be dropped On Wednesday December 30, 2020, Mr. Nicholas Opiyo, the Executive Director of Chapter Four Uganda was granted bail by the Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court sitting at Buganda Road Chief Magistrates Court. We secured his release from Kitalya Maximum Security Prison on the same day. Chapter Four Uganda welcomes the decision of Her Lordship Jane Okuo Kajuga to uphold Mr. Opiyo’s right to bail.  Mr. Opiyo is now preparing to return to his vital work of defending human rights. He will also be providing probono legal services […]
- [5th statement on the frivolous charges against Nicholas Opiyo](https://chapterfouruganda.org/5th-statement-on-the-frivolous-charges-against-nicholas-opiyo/): We continue to demand that the fabricated and malicious charges be dropped.  Earlier today, Monday December 28, 2020, Mr. Nicholas Opiyo appeared before the Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court sitting at the Buganda Road Magistrates Court in Kampala, via video-link for mention of his case. The court was presided over by a judicial officer who did not have jurisdiction to record plea and entertain his bail application. As result, Mr. Opiyo was further remanded to Kitalya Maximum Security Prison until January 11, 2021 when the matter will come up again for mention. Click here to download the statement in PDF Mr. […]
- [4th statement on the frivolous charges against Nicholas Opiyo](https://chapterfouruganda.org/4th-statement-on-the-frivolous-charges-against-nicholas-opiyo/): We continue to demand that the fabricated and malicious charges be dropped.  Following his appearance before Nakawa Magistrates Court on December 24, 2020, to face money laundering charges under section 3 (c) of the Anti-Money Laundering Act, Nicholas Opiyo was remanded to Kitalya Government Prison, where he is currently detained. Nicholas’s family and the Chapter Four board have been in touch with him, and he informed them that he is in good health and being treated decently by the authorities. Click here to download the statement in PDF. Chapter Four unequivocally reiterates that the unsubstantiated allegations against Nicholas are a […]
- [3rd statement on the frivolous charges against Nicholas Opiyo](https://chapterfouruganda.org/3rd-statement-on-the-frivolous-charges-against-nicholas-opiyo/): We continue to demand that the fabricated and malicious charges be dropped.  Earlier this afternoon, Nicholas Opiyo was produced at Nakawa Magistrates Court to face charges of money laundering under section 3 (c) of the Anti-Money Laundering Act. The government alleges that Nicholas acquired USD 340,000 through ABSA bank in the names of Chapter Four Uganda knowing that the said funds were proceeds of crime. The Government has not provided any evidence that the money in question is from the proceeds of crime. Despite all the efforts of Nicholas’s legal team to secure his release, Nicholas was this afternoon remanded to Kitalya Government Prison […]
- [Update on the detention of Nicholas Opiyo on frivolous charges](https://chapterfouruganda.org/update-on-the-detention-of-nicholas-opiyo-on-frivolous-charges/): (December 23, 2020 / Kampala, Uganda) Chapter Four reiterates its call for the unconditional and immediate release of Nicholas Opiyo, a renowned human rights lawyer and the Executive Director of Chapter Four Uganda, and four lawyers, Anthony Odur, Herbert Dakasi, Simon Peter Esomu, and Tenywa Hamid. At about 11 am on Wednesday 23rd December 2020, Chapter Four Uganda’s legal team led by Advocate David F. Mpanga and Stephen Tumwesigye, together with the President of the Uganda Law Society, Pheona Wall, were finally granted access to meet Mr. Nicholas Opiyo, and his four colleagues, after at least 20 hours in incommunicado detention at the Special Investigations Division in Kireka. […]
- [Statement on the abduction and incommunicado detention of Mr. Nicholas Opiyo](https://chapterfouruganda.org/statement-on-the-abduction-and-incommunicado-detention-of-mr-nicholas-opiyo-2/): (Kampala / December 22, 2020) Chapter Four Uganda is deeply concerned about the abduction and incommunicado detention of our Executive Director, Nicholas Opiyo earlier today afternoon by unknown security operatives. Chapter Four is further concerned about the safety and well-being of Mr. Opiyo, considering that he is being held outside of the protection of the law.  We are in the process of gathering facts and reviewing the situation and we will be taking measures to ensure his prompt release. We condemn this brutal abduction and we call upon our colleagues and partners to condemn the arbitrary violation of his personal […]
- [Media Series: Analogue Politics in Uganda's Digital Elections](https://chapterfouruganda.org/media-series-analogue-politics-in-ugandas-digital-elections/): Click here to watch the recorded conversation on our YouTube channel CONTEXT Uganda is scheduled to hold Presidential, Parliamentary, and local government elections early next year.  In June 2020, the Electoral Commission considered and approved a revised plan announcing mass rallies would not be allowed and encouraging contestants to use digital and electronic media including radios, television, print and social media to reach the electorate. Aspiring politicians have opposed this, describing the measures as another ploy by the incumbent to extend his tenure as president of Uganda. Click here to download the concept note in PDF During the 2016 General […]
- [Media Series: Censorship and Expression in Uganda's Elections](https://chapterfouruganda.org/media-series-censorship-and-expression-in-ugandas-elections/): Click here to watch the conversation on censorship and expression in Uganda’s Elections (Held on Tuesday October 13, 2020 from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM (EAT) On Monday, April 13, 2020, Uganda military intelligence agency, CMI, arrested, detained and tortured Mr. Kakwenza Rukirabashiza, a novelist and government critic. He endured this ordeal for 7 days without access to family, doctor or personal attorney. At the time of his detention, he was questioned about his published political fiction works ‘The Greedy Barbarian’, a book about a greedy dictator who clings to power for 43 years. Following mounting pressure on social media […]
- [Media Series: Implications of Uganda’s Digital Election Campaigns](https://chapterfouruganda.org/media-series-implications-of-ugandas-digital-election-campaigns/): Click here to watch the conversation on our YouTube channel (Kampala, July 10, 2020) Human rights activists in Uganda have called on the Electoral Commission to work with opposition parties and other stakeholders to ensure that the upcoming elections are free and fair. On June 16, 2020, the Electoral Commission issued guidelines banning traditional outdoor mass campaign rallies in the 2020-2021 general election campaign. The EC encouraged candidates to make use of news media and digital media to send their messages to the electorate. In a Chapter Four webinar held under the theme: “Democracy in the Digital Age; Implications of […]
- [COVID-19: Petition for legal services during lockdown](https://chapterfouruganda.org/covid-19-petition-for-legal-services-during-lockdown/): RE: PETITION FOR CLASSIFICATION OF LEGAL SERVICES AS ESSENTIAL SERVICES AMIDST THE ONGOING LOCKDOWN The Legal Aid Service Providers Network (LASPNET) is a national member-based Non- Governmental Organization of 55 Legal Aid Services Providers (LASPs) spread across 80 districts in Uganda. The Network aims at providing strategic linkages and collaborative support to Legal Aid Service Providers as well as improve Access to Justice for the poor and vulnerable in Uganda. LASPNET together with the undersigned members and strategic partners is pleased to share with the Hon. Chief Justice and Heads of JLOS Institutions an appeal calling for recognition and classification […]
- [COVID-19: CSOs call for further measures beyond exempting pregnant women from transport ban](https://chapterfouruganda.org/covid-19-csos-call-for-further-measures-beyond-exempting-pregnant-women-from-transport-ban/): Civil society response to President Museveni’s directive that pregnant women will no longer be banned from using transport to seek health services during COVID-19 lockdown: The President of Uganda on April 19, 2020 declared during his address to the country that pregnant women will no longer be required to seek Resident District Commissioners (RDC) permission to seek health care services. [Click here to download the statement in PDF] This announcement came after civil society and Ugandan media d​ocumented, investigated and exposed​ preventable deaths and suffering of pregnant women brought about by the transport ban. Civil society had also p​etitioned the Prime Minister​ and theWorld Bank​ before […]
- [Xenophobic attacks in China: Rights groups urge AU to demand independent investigations, end attacks](https://chapterfouruganda.org/xenophobic-attacks-in-china-rights-groups-urge-au-to-demand-independent-investigations-end-attacks/): To: H.E Moussa Faki The Chairperson, African Union Commission P.O. Box P.O. Box 3243, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 13 April 2020 Your Excellency, We present our compliments to Your Excellency. The undersigned Peoples represent a broad cross-section of the citizens of the African Union (AU) and include civil society organisations (CSOs), women organisations and feminist movements, labour and students movements, youth organisations, professional associations, lawyers, judges, academicians, business people, clergy, artists, activists and journalists. [Download the letter in PDF with full list of signatories] We note with appreciation the AU’s commitment to the continued transforming of the AU from a union […]
- [COVID-19: 12 CSOs urge World Bank to ensure funds support access to health needs for vulnerable communities](https://chapterfouruganda.org/covid-19-12-csos-urge-world-bank-to-ensure-funds-support-access-to-health-needs-for-vulnerable-communities/): OPEN LETTER FROM CIVIL SOCIETY TO THE WORLD BANK REGARDING THE COVID-19 RESPONSE IN UGANDATo: Antony Thompson,World Bank Country Director Kampala, Uganda Dear Mr. Thompson: We are writing to you today as civil society organisations working on the right to health in Uganda with an urgent appeal on behalf of pregnant women, people living with HIV and other vulnerable communities amidst the COVID-19 crisis. We call upon the World Bank to ensure that its recent announcement of $15 million for Uganda’s health response to COVID-19 does not only focus on prevention of COVID-19, but also supports key access to health […]
- [POMA: Uganda court annuls public order law](https://chapterfouruganda.org/poma-uganda-court-annuls-public-order-law/): On March 26, 2020, Uganda’s Constitutional Court annulled the repressive Public Order Management Act, 2013 (POMA) and declared all acts done under the law null and void. In a 4 – 1 decision, the court ruled that the entire law was inconsistent with the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda. The court, however, struck down section 8 of the law for having the unconstitutional effect thereby rendering the entire law impotent. In the lead judgment, Hon. Justice Cheborion Barishaki, JA/JCC ruled that the provisions of the POMA do not pass the test set out under Article 43(2)(c) of the 1995 Constitution which […]
- [COVID-19: Human rights organisations call for release of prisoners](https://chapterfouruganda.org/covid-19-human-rights-organisations-call-for-release-of-prisoners/): To the attention of the Chief Justice, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, the Director of Public Prosecutions; the Inspectorate General of Police and the Commissioner General of Prisons. RE: CALL TO TAKE IMMEDIATE AND URGENT MEASURES TO PROTECT THE RIGHTS OF DETAINESS IN UGANDA In Kampala, 27 March 2020 Click here to download the letter in PDF. Whilst Europe is at the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic, Uganda is preparing to face an increase in the number of cases. Measures have been swiftly implemented by the government who has shown a commitment to reducing the impact of COVID-19 […]
- [Reflections from the historic PFLAG support group meeting](https://chapterfouruganda.org/reflections-from-the-historic-pflag-support-group-meeting/): On Friday December 13, 2019, Chapter Four Uganda convened the second support group meeting for parents of LGBT individuals in Uganda. We are committed to supporting parents and families to meaningfully support their children under the PFLAG-Uganda project. Click here for reflections on what transpired at the first historic PFLAG-Uganda support group meeting in October this year. Download the PFLAG-Uganda study report here.
- [Ram bar arrests: Drop all charges against LGBTIQ Ugandans](https://chapterfouruganda.org/ram-bar-arrests-drop-all-charges-against-lgbtiq-ugandans/): On ­ Sunday 10th November 2019, fully armed Uganda Peoples Defense Forces officials, Local Defense Unit officers from the Uganda Police Force raided an LGBTIQ friendly entertainment center known as Ram Bar after an alleged tip off that the bar’s revelers are suspected narcotic drug users. (Statement in PDF) In the presence of media, these armed forces brutally arrested 125 people and took them to Central Police Station where their holding charge was “public nuisance.” “As soon as we got into Ram bar at around 11:30pm, we saw police swamp the place and ordered us to all sit down. Not […]
- [Call for respect of human rights at Makerere University](https://chapterfouruganda.org/call-for-respect-of-human-rights-at-makerere-university/): KAMPALA, UGANDA / October 29, 2019 – The ongoing happenings at Makerere University involving student protests against a 15% cumulative tuition increment by the University and resultant reactions by security forces have shocked the entire country. We have watched in disbelief what was intended as a peaceful protest led by female students degenerate into violence including raids on student residences under the cover of darkness. Consequently, students have been hurt and their property maliciously damaged. It is also regrettable to note that there have also been reports of sexual assault on female students. Such actions violate fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined […]
- [Uganda police disrupts, shuts down 2019 IDAHOT event](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-police-disrupts-shuts-down-2019-idahot-event/): (17th May, 2019 / Kampala, Uganda) Chapter Four Uganda, an organization working for the promotion of civil and political rights for marginalized populations and Sexual Minorities Uganda, an umbrella organization advocating for the rights of LGBTI Ugandans, had today organized an event to commemorate the International Day Against Homo phobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT). Click here to download the statement in PDF. IDAHOT is a United Nations awareness day designated to coordinate international events that raise awareness of LGBTI rights violations and shed light on LGBTI rights work worldwide. At around 01:00 pm, an hour before the event was scheduled to start, […]
- [Human Rights Award, 2019 statement](https://chapterfouruganda.org/human-rights-award-2019-statement/): The organizers of the Third Annual Human Rights Convention announce Mr. Sekajugo Collin as the third recipient of its prestigious annual human rights award.  Mr. Sekajugo will receive the award at the 2019 convention. A talented Ugandan visual artist, Mr. Sekajugo is recognized for his outstanding and brave creative works that have captured, in vivid color and compelling imaginary, contemporary human rights concerns. “His painting of the clenched fists; “The Fist of Stella”, symbolizing resilience and resistance of jailed Dr. Stella Nyanzi against mistreatment at Makerere University has become a symbol of the struggle against oppression and human rights violation’ says Nicholas […]
- [Guidelines on requests for information from NGOs](https://chapterfouruganda.org/guidelines-on-requests-for-information-from-ngos/): A number of NGOs in Uganda have received information requests from people claiming to be from the Uganda Police Force to apparently make a ‘database’ on NGOs. Most of the information being requested is already in the hands of different government agencies such as the NGO Bureau, the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), and the Financial Intelligence Authority (FIA). This has brought about discomfort among actors in the sector. It is important to note that under Ugandan law, only the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) is mandated to collect and keep general data on different sectors or entities. Other state […]
- [Women's Day 2019: A call for equality and justice](https://chapterfouruganda.org/womens-day-2019-a-call-for-equality-and-justice/): Impunity for crimes and violations against women emboldening abusers (For Immediate Release / Kampala, March 8, 2019) – On this International Women’s Day, Chapter Four Uganda acknowledges and celebrates the contributions of Ugandan women to the advancement of gender equality and justice in their communities, often at great personal sacrifice. While we celebrate progress achieved, we are cognizant of the many structural inequality obstacles Ugandan women continue to face. Click here to download the statement in PDF. The theme of this year’s global celebration is “Think Equal, Build Smart, Innovate for Change.”  In choosing this theme, the UN has emphasized that innovation […]
- [Baseline Study: "My Child Is Different"](https://chapterfouruganda.org/baseline-study-my-child-is-different/): Press Statement For Immediate Release: 20th February 2019 Contact: Clare Byarugaba, Equality and Non-discrimination program coordinator Email: cbyarugaba@chapterfouruganda.org  Contact: +256790916614         GROUNDBREAKING STUDY OF UGANDAN PARENTS’ ATTITUDES TOWARDS LGBTI FAMILY MEMBERS SHOWS ANGER, DENIAL, DISBELIEF, STIGMA — AND ALSO, A DESIRE TO LEARN (Kampala, Uganda) Chapter Four Uganda, an organization working for the promotion of civil and political rights for marginalized populations today released findings of a baseline study of the perceptions and experiences of parents, families and their lesbian, gay, bisexual transgender or intersex (LGBTI) children (aged 21 to 50 years) in Uganda. The “My Child is Different” study, conducted by […]
- [Uganda: End Female Genital Mutilation](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-end-female-genital-mutilation/): Fight stigma, firmly enforce anti-FGM law to end mutilations (Kampala / Kapchorwa, February 6, 2019) – Today, Chapter Four Uganda and the Kapchorwa Civil Society Organizations’ Alliance (KACSOA) join the international community to mark the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation. The UN awareness day comes amidst a surge in Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) incidents in Sebei sub-region, particularly in Kween district. Traditionally, the illegal practice is also known to be carried out in Kapchorwa, Bukwo, Nakapiripirit, Moroto, and Amudat districts. Download the statement in PDF. “FGM is an illegal and discriminatory practice that violates girls’ and women’s fundamental […]
- [NGO guide to labour law in Uganda](https://chapterfouruganda.org/ngo-guide-to-labour-law-in-uganda/): Chapter Four Uganda has published the NGO guide to labour law in Uganda (Download). The booklet simplifies labour issues for Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in Uganda. It provides information on employment rights, duties, and equality at the work place for staff, casual labourers, volunteers, interns and apprentice. It also highlights on sexual harassment, child labour and other related actions that violate rights of individuals at the work place.  The guide reviews relevant provisions under the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, the Employment Act and the regulations, the Non-Governmental Organisations Act 2016, the NSSF Act, and other related laws.  The key objective of […]
- [A simplified guide to the NGO Act, 2016](https://chapterfouruganda.org/a-simplified-guide-to-the-ngo-act-2016/): Governments in Africa have over the past years moved to regulate Civil Society Organizations. The regulations provide for a wide number of controls and obligations that CSOs have to meet if they are to operate in a country. In Uganda, there are a number of regulations under different laws such as the NGO Act, 2016, the Companies Act, Trustee Incorporation Act etc.  The NGO Act, 2016 came into force in March 2016 and places a number of obligations on NGOs working in Uganda. The law applies to a host of NGOs including local or indigenous NGOs, foreign NGOs, CBOs, Trustees and Companies […]
- [General guidelines on CSO registration in Uganda](https://chapterfouruganda.org/cso-guidelines-for-uganda/): Under the NGO Act 2016, it is a requirement that before registering an NGO, the organisation must first be incorporated as a company limited by guarantee (non-profit). This makes it important for individuals and groups that seek to formalise their operations to know about the legal requirements, procedures and key obligations. Chapter Four Uganda has developed the CSO guidelines for Uganda (download) highlighting key issues for civil society organisations in Uganda. The easy-to-read outline format enhanced with illustrations is designed to help the reader to understand in a simplified manner. It is hoped that the guide will help give a better understanding […]
- [End attacks on journalists, hold perpetrators to account](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-end-attacks-on-journalists-hold-perpetrators-to-account/): (Kampala, August 14, 2018) – The targeted attacks on journalists in Arua town as candidates engaged in the last day of campaigns for the area Member of Parliament (MP) by-election is a deeply concerning development. It represents a direct and severe threat to press freedom in Uganda and access to information by the public during elections. Click here to download this press statement in PDF. The Uganda Police Force should unconditionally drop all charges preferred against the journalists that were arrested, return all confiscated equipment, and hold persons responsible for the violations to account. The police should further take meaningful measures to […]
- [Guidelines on police searches at NGO offices](https://chapterfouruganda.org/guidelines-on-police-searches-of-ngo-offices/): Police searches of NGO offices and confiscation of properties such as computers, mobile phones, financial transaction documents, activity files and data among others, on allegations of inter alia illicit financing, funding subversive activities, planning to burn the city, raise serious human rights and legal concerns.  Click here to download the guidelines. These search orders are obtained under section 70 of the Magistrates Courts Act and section 7(2) of the Criminal Procedure Code Act of 1950, and are granted by magistrate’s courts. In the current political context and the legal circumstances of their issuance and manner of searches, Chapter Four Uganda […]
- [Launch of the Human Rights Violations Tracker](https://chapterfouruganda.org/launch-of-the-human-rights-violations-tracker/): Tracking and documenting human rights violations in Uganda As we continue to defend constitutionally guaranteed rights across a spectrum of issues without limitation based on ethnic, religious, or other group identity, political affiliation or sexual orientation, Chapter Four Uganda announces the launch of a violations tracker to document and track human rights violations in the country. The tracker will be an online platform for information gathering, monitoring and archiving the trends and human rights violations visulaized in a map of Uganda that highlights types of violations, details such as date of violation, location name, alleged perpetrator, right violated and summary of circumstances […]
- [Workshop on protecting civic space in East Africa](https://chapterfouruganda.org/workshop-on-protecting-civic-space-in-east-africa/): More than 40 civil society representatives from Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya gathered at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel for a two-day – July 10 & 11, 2017 – strategic workshop on “Protecting Civic Space in East Africa.” The workshop addressed urgent concerns voiced by civil society in the region, in the midst of a global trend of increased restrictions on the rights to freedom of association, assembly and expression. Participants discussed relevant laws, policies and practices in their respective countries. They also agreed on national and regional advocacy priorities, notably the immediate implementation of the Public Benefit Organisations (PBO) Act, 2013 […]
- [Uganda: Set Independent Inquiry in November Killings](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-set-independent-inquiry-in-november-killings/): Invite African Commission, UN experts to Join Kasese Investigation (Kampala, May 26, 2017) – The Ugandan government should facilitate independent and transparent investigations with international expertise into the November 2016 killings of civilians in Kasese, Uganda and hold security forces accountable, a coalition of 40 organizations said today. The groups urged the government to invite relevant African Commission experts and United Nations special rapporteurs to participate in investigations. Click here for the full statement in PDF. Six months after the joint police-military operations in Kasese, western Uganda that led to many deaths, there have been no investigations into the security forces’ operations. […]
- [IDAHOT: Celebrate Family Diversity](https://chapterfouruganda.org/idahot-celebrate-family-diversity/): (Kampala) Today, 17th May 2017, Chapter Four Uganda joins the rest of the World to mark the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOT). Click here for the statement in PDF. Established in 2004, the day is an annual landmark that was created to draw attention of opinion leaders, policy makers, social movements, the public and the media to the violence and discrimination experienced by Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender and Intersex people Internationally. The theme for this year is ‘Celebrate Family Diversity: ‘Love Makes a Family’ and will focus on the role of families in the physical and emotional well being […]
- [Statement on commemoration of IDAHOT, 2016](https://chapterfouruganda.org/statement-on-commemoration-of-idahot-2016/): (Kampala, May 17th 2016) – In commemoration of the 2016 International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (May 17), Chapter Four Uganda calls upon the Ugandan authorities to implement the resolution of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights passed at its 55th Ordinary Session held in Luanda, Angola, from 28th April to 12th May 2014. The Resolution (Res. 275) ‘strongly urges States to end all acts of violence and abuse, whether committed by State or non-state actors, including by enacting and effectively applying appropriate laws prohibiting and punishing all forms of violence including those targeting persons on the […]
- [Chapter Four Uganda & RFK Human Rights Petition UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention on Stella Nyanzi's Detention](https://chapterfouruganda.org/chapter-four-uganda-rfk-human-rights-petition-un-working-group-on-arbitrary-detention-on-stella-nyanzis-detention/): On April 24, 2017, Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights and Chapter Four Uganda jointly submitted a petition to the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention on behalf of Stella Nyanzi. Ms. Nyanzi is a prominent human rights defender, social activist, and academic in Uganda. Ms. Nyanzi has been arbitrarily detained by Ugandan authorities since April 7, 2017, and was charged with cyber harassment and offensive communication on April 10, 2017, for her Facebook posts criticizing Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni. As a leading voice on sexual freedom and women’s rights, Ms. Nyanzi has long defended LGBTI rights in Uganda. As a social and political […]
- [Inaugural Annual Human Rights Convention](https://chapterfouruganda.org/the-1st-annual-human-rights-convention/): Chapter Four Uganda and its partners hosted the inaugural Human Rights Convention on April, 6 2017 at Kabira Country Club, Kampala. The convention brought together participants from the civil society, judiciary, print/ electronic media, human rights defenders, Members of Parliament and development partners to share good practices, experiences and emerging trends in public interest litigation in Uganda. The conversations revolved around the use of Public Interest Litigation to promote the human rights and interests of Ugandans. The Ambassador of the Netherlands to Uganda H. E Henk Jan Bakker delivered a keynote address in which he highlighted the importance of decisions […]
- [Uganda: Public interest litigator wins first Civil Liberty Award](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-public-interest-litigator-wins-first-civil-liberty-award/): For Immediate Release (Kampala/April 13, 2017) – Long time human rights defender and publisher of law reports advocate Ladislaus Rwakafuzi was awarded the first Civil Liberty Award on April 6, 2017. The award was part of the inaugural Human Rights Convention held under the auspices of Chapter Four Uganda that focused on the future of public interest litigation in the country. Click here to download the press release in PDF. Commenting on the award, Nicholas Opiyo team leader at Chapter Four said, “ Very few epitomize dedication to pursue justice for the underprivileged like Counsel Rwakafuzi”. As an advocate Mr. […]
- [Failure of Due Process: Police infringe on Civil Liberties under the Public Order Management Act, 2013](https://chapterfouruganda.org/failure-of-due-process-police-infringe-on-civil-liberties-under-the-public-order-management-act-2013/): The debate on whether the Public Order Management Act (POMA) is a case of “bad law or poor law enforcement” has now been settled by its arbitrary, and partisan enforcement by the Uganda Police Force. Recent examples do not only confirm the generally held view among civil rights activists that POMA is a retrogressive legislation being selectively enforced, but also that in its spirit and enforcement, it is an unjustifiable of the freedom of expression, association and assembly. On August 4th 2016, members of the Uganda Police Force (UPF) raided a beauty pageant organized by members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex […]
- [What you need to know about Ms. Hellen Obuk's case](https://chapterfouruganda.org/what-you-need-to-know-about-ms-hellen-obuks-case/): On Saturday August 13, 2016, a group of about 6 police officers on 2 patrol pick-ups from Mukono Police Station under the command of the District Police Commander ASP Fred Ahimbisibwe arrested Ms. Hellen Obuk, a private security guard working with Security Group deployed at Stanbic Bank, Mukono. Click here to download the statement in PDF. Ms. Obuk was arrested and charged with the offence of libel at Mukono Police Station. She was later released on police bond. The facts giving rise to the arrest were that she sought to subject a bank customer to a routine security check using […]
- [Uganda: Government acted unconstitutionally in stopping LGBTI Pride activities](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-government-acted-unconstitutionally-in-stopping-lgbti-pride-activities/): (Kampala / August 16, 2016) The Civil Society Coalition on Human Rights and Constitiutional Law (the Coalition) condemns the Uganda Police Force’s actions on the evening of 4th August, when they brutally and unlawfully stopped an LGBTI Beauty pageant, harrased participants and arrested 16 persons including human rights defenders. The more than 200 attendees were locked inside the venue for over an hour while the Police confiscated some people’s phones and forced others to sit on the floor. Click here to download the press statement in PDF. Some of the participants were groped by Police officers, had their hair pulled, […]
- [Ban Forced Anal Exams: Abusive “Tests” for Homosexual Conduct Violate Rights](https://chapterfouruganda.org/ban-forced-anal-exams-abusive-tests-for-homosexual-conduct-violate-rights/): (July 12, 2016 / Geneva) – Forced anal examinations on men and transgender women accused of consensual same-sex conduct have been reported in at least eight countries in the last five years, Human Rights Watch said in a report released today. These examinations lack evidentiary value and are a form of cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment that may in some cases amount to torture.The 82-page report, “Dignity Debased: Forced Anal Examinations in Homosexuality Prosecutions,” is based on interviews with 32 men and transgender women who underwent forced anal examinations in Cameroon, Egypt, Kenya, Lebanon, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Uganda, and Zambia. The examinations, which have the purported objective of finding […]
- [8 Recommendations To The 27th African Union Summit](https://chapterfouruganda.org/human-rights-8-recommendations-to-the-27th-african-union-summit/): This year, the 27th African Union Summit is slated to take place from 10th – 18th July, in Kigali, Rwanda. The summit entitled, “2016: African Year of Human Rights”, will have a specific focus on the rights of women. Ahead of this very crucial summit hosted in East Africa, Chapter Four Uganda hopes that the following critical issues of governance and human rights in the East African region, will be addressed squarely by the leadership of the African Union. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE DOCUMENT IN PDF FILE EXTRA-JUDICIAL KILLINGS AND VIOLATIONS OF THE RIGHT TO LIFE The excessive and unchecked […]
- [Kenya: Investigate Killings of Lawyer, Two Men](https://chapterfouruganda.org/kenya-investigate-killings-of-lawyer-two-men/): Bodies Dumped in River after Enforced Disappearance (Nairobi, July 3, 2016) – Kenyan authorities must urgently investigate the killing last week of three men, including a human rights lawyer, and ensure that those found responsible are held to account in fair trials, 34 Kenyan and international human rights organizations said today. Human rights activists will today hold demonstrations in Nairobi and other parts of Kenya to protest the heinous killings. The shocking abduction, enforced disappearance and extrajudicial killings of lawyer Willie Kimani, as well as his client and their taxi driver that day, whose bodies were recovered from a river […]
- [Uganda: Joint Statement on International Day in Support of Torture Victims](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-joint-statement-on-international-day-in-support-of-torture-victims/): (Kampala, June 24, 2016) – Good morning members of the media, human rights defenders, ladies and gentlemen! Every 26th June, human rights defenders, survivors of torture and relevant stakeholders the world over take the opportunity to speak out against torture both as a human rights violation and as a crime, and also to remember and support victims and survivors of torture. As we once again commemorate this year’s United Nations International Day in Support of the Victims of Torture on June 26th 2016, it is an opportunity to call on all stakeholders including United Nations Member States, civil society and […]
- [Uganda: Investigate Break-ins at Groups’ Offices](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-investigate-break-ins-at-groups-offices/): Pattern of Attacks Indicates Perpetrators Enjoy Impunity (Kampala, June 13, 2016) – The Uganda Police Force (UPF) should promptly, thoroughly, and transparently investigate a series of attacks on Ugandan non-governmental organizations and human rights defenders and hold suspects accountable, 31 Ugandan and international human rights groups said today in a letter to the police inspector general. The severity of one of the recent attacks, in which intruders beat a security guard to death, demonstrates the urgency of addressing these attacks, for which no-one has been held responsible. Between April and May 2016, intruders broke into the offices of at least three groups in Kampala […]
- [Joint Civil Society Statement on Break-Ins of Offices of CSOs](https://chapterfouruganda.org/joint-civil-society-statement-on-break-ins-of-offices-of-csos/): Kampala, 23 May 2016 / Uganda government should immediately take steps to end pattern of office break-ins 10 Ugandan civil society organisations urge the government of Uganda to conduct swift and transparent investigations the recent wave of office break-ins targeting human rights organisations and take steps to put an end to the practice. On 22 May 2016, the Human Rights Awareness and Promotion Forum (HRAPF) offices were broken into and the guard on duty was beaten to death. The offices of the Executive Director and Deputy Executive Director broken into and left ransacked, and an unknown number of documents were taken. […]
- [Civil Society, Human Rights Activists Condemn Ugandan Police Attack on Lawful LGBTI Pride Celebration](https://chapterfouruganda.org/civil-society-human-rights-activists-condemn-ugandan-police-attack-on-lawful-lgbti-pride-celebration/): For Immediate Release: August 5 2016. Click to download press statement in PDF. (Kampala) On August 4, the third night of a week of Ugandan LGBTI Pride celebrations, a vibrant pageant underway at Kampala’s Club Venom to crown Mr/Ms/Mx Pride Uganda was brutally and unlawfully raided by the Uganda police, starting at approximately 11:30 pm. Police claimed that they had been told a “gay wedding” was taking place and that the celebration was “unlawful” because police had not been informed (police had been duly informed, and the prior two Pride events were conducted without incident on Tuesday and Wednesday nights).   […]
- [Uganda: Social Media Ban Infringes on Fundamental Civil Liberties](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-social-media-ban-infringes-on-fundamental-civil-liberties/): On Thursday 18th February 2016, Ugandans went to the polls to elect a president and members of parliament for a five year term. That morning, Ugandans woke up to news that the government through the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) had ordered privately owned telecommunications companies to block all social media including Facebook, Twitter and Whatsapp.  Government also went ahead to order the blockage of mobile money, a mobile financial service that allows people to carry out financial transactions over their mobile phones. The Uganda Communication Commission indicated that the social media blackout was ordered due to “a threat to public […]
- [Statement from Human Rights Watch and Chapter Four Uganda On Blocked Besigye Visit](https://chapterfouruganda.org/statement-from-human-rights-watch-and-chapter-four-uganda-on-blocked-besigye-visit/): (Kampala, February 24, 2016) Dr. Besigye invited us, in our role as human rights defenders, to meet with him today to talk about human rights concerns – something we do regularly with the government of Uganda and other political actors. Police denied us access to Dr. Besigye’s home, claiming we were not on his program for today, despite an explicit invitation and the presence of his staff to receive us. We remain concerned that Dr. Besigye’s current legal status as a prisoner in his home has no basis in Ugandan law, constitutes arbitrary detention and violates basic human rights to […]
- [Joint Letter on Internet Shutdown in Uganda](https://chapterfouruganda.org/joint-letter-on-internet-shutdown-in-uganda/): Mr. Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, Mr. David Kaye, Mr. Joseph Cannataci, Mr. Maina Kiai, Mr. Michel Forst, Ms. Faith Pansy Tlakula, and Ms. Reine Alapini-Gansou cc: African Union African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Secretariat Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa Secretariat Domestic & International Election Observer Missions to the Republic of Uganda East African Community Secretariat International Conference on the Great Lakes Region Secretariat New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) Secretariat Uganda Communications Commission Uganda Electoral Commission Uganda Ministry of Information and Communications Technology 23 February 2016 Re: Internet shutdown in Uganda and elections Your Excellencies, We are writing […]
- [Uganda: Suspend ‘Crime Preventers’, Massive Unregulated Force Threatens Election Security](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-suspend-crime-preventers-massive-unregulated-force-threatens-election-security/): (Kampala) – The Ugandan government should urgently suspend the crime preventer program ahead of the February 2016 national elections, said Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, Human Rights Network Uganda (HURINET-U), Chapter Four Uganda, and Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI) today. Presidential and parliamentary elections are scheduled for February 18. “Crime preventers” are a volunteer force of civilians recruited and managed by police to report on and prevent crime in cooperation with the police and communities. In practice, crime preventers are strongly affiliated with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party. Its members have acted in partisan ways and carried out brutal […]
- [Uganda: Our Top 2015 Human Rights Stories Told In Tweets](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-our-top-2015-human-rights-stories-told-in-tweets/): During the year, we shared several human rights stories on our twitter page. We now look back to the start of the year and put together a curation of tweets posted in 2015 by Chapter Four Uganda twitterati and other partners. The recurring theme in the fight for human rights in 2015 in Uganda centered around the legislative process of the repressive NGO Bill, 2015; violations of rights of journalists and bloggers; arbitrary arrests and illegal detention of human rights defenders and pro-democracy activists; the rise of ‘crime preventers’ and the crackdown on freedom of expression and assembly ahead of […]
- [Uganda: Reject Vague Crimes in Proposed Law](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-reject-vague-crimes-in-proposed-law/): (Kampala) – President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda should not assent to the Nongovermental Organisations Act passed by parliament on November 27, 2015, Chapter Four Uganda, Human Rights Awareness and Promotion Forum (HRAPF), and Human Rights Watch said today. He should request parliament to reconsider the law’s criminal penalties for violating vague and undefined “special obligations,” a provision that could make organizations vulnerable to politically motivated charges for legitimate work and encourage self-censorship. The law has prompted significant debate and input since it was first presented in parliament in April 2015. A parliamentary committee report recommended numerous changes, which led to many significant improvements. […]
- [UGANDA: NGO Bill Tabled, Minister Vows to Press On With Repressive Clauses](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-ngo-bill-tabled-minister-vows-to-press-on-with-repressive-clauses/): Uganda’s Non-Governmental Organisations Bill, 2015 (NGO Bill) was tabled today afternoon before Parliament to pave way for the Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs to present its report. The Minister of Internal Affairs, Gen. Aronda Nyakairima was quick to caution the Members of Parliament that he will be challenging the Committee report which proposes several major progressive amendments. In October 2010, the Cabinet approved the National NGO Policy raising a number of serious concerns. In an effort to amend or repeal the regressive NGO Registration Act Cap 113, consultations and benchmarking commenced in January 2011. This process gave birth to the current NGO […]
- [Ugandan CSO Under Investigations On Minister’s Orders](https://chapterfouruganda.org/ugandan-cso-under-investigations-on-ministers-orders/): The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) has officially commenced investigations into the alleged “unlawful activities” of the Great Lakes Institute for Strategic Studies (GLISS), a Ugandan civil society organization. This follows a complaint by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Gen. Aronda Nyakairima that the organization was ‘de-campaigning government programs.’ In a letter dated 24th July 2015, the Registrar General of URSB notified the subscribers of GLISS Mr. Godber Tumushabe and Ms. Sophie Kutegeka of the appointment of inspectors under Sections 173 and 174 of the Companies Act of 2012. The inspectors are to investigate the activities of GLISS in line with the minister’s complaint. “Further, this […]
- [From Our Partners: A Call to President Obama to Support African Civil Society During Sub-Saharan Visit](https://chapterfouruganda.org/from-our-partners-a-call-to-president-obama-to-support-african-civil-society-during-sub-saharan-visit/): In a letter endorsed by over 50 CSOs from around the world and delivered by our partners Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, Front Line Defenders, Open Society Foundations, and World Movement for Democracy, Independent groups have welcomed the official visit by U.S. President Barack Obama to Sub-Saharan Africa scheduled for this month of July 2015. They have further called on the President to publicly meet with pro-democracy and human rights activists in the region during the trip. The letter, dated July 14th, 2015, further highlights specific human rights concerns in Kenya and Ethiopia since they are the countries he will be making stopovers. This official visit […]
- [Uganda: Minister orders investigations, dissolution of civil society group](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-minister-orders-investigations-dissolution-of-the-great-lakes-institute-for-strategic-studies-gliss-a-ugandan-civil-society-organisation/): The Minister of Internal Affairs, Gen. Aronda Nyakairima has written to the NGO Board requesting an urgent investigation into the activities of the Great Lakes Institute for Strategic Studies, a Ugandan civil society Organisation. This action comes on the backdrop of a concerted attempt by the Minister to hurriedly push through enactment of the NGO Bill, a proposed law that is severely restrictive of the freedom of association in Uganda. Appearing before parliamentary Internal Affairs and Defence Committee this week to make a submission on the NGO Bill, the Minister had hinted on the accusations he now labels in his letter. ‘How can an […]
- [7 Youth Activists Arrested, Detained For Holding Press Conference](https://chapterfouruganda.org/7-youth-activists-arrested-detained-for-holding-press-conference/): The arrest of youth activists in Kampala today and the consequent manner of the police in handling this case potent a lack of respect for the freedom of association and peaceful assembly in the run up to the 2016 general elections. The youth activists, who had gathered in the city today, had just concluded a press conference/briefing when they were arrested by the police on allegations of holding an unlawful assembly. They were interrogated for several hours at the Jinja Road Police Station. The youths through their lawyers applied to be released on a police bond but their application was denied despite […]
- [Uganda: Over 11,500 NGOs Face Deregistration If NGO Bill Is Not Amended](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-over-11500-ngos-face-deregistration-if-ngo-bill-is-not-amended/): On June 25th, the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Defense and Internal Affairs, Hon. Namugwanya Benny Bugembe revealed during the public hearing on the NGO Bill, 2015 that members of the public had only two weeks to provide input on the controversial NGO Bill for consideration. This means that members of the public have only a couple of days left to do so. After this period, the committee is expected to move to table a report on the bill before Parliament to pave way for the passing of the NGO Bill, 2015. Government remains resolute to rush this bill […]
- [Uganda: Stranglehold on Independent Groups](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-stranglehold-on-independent-groups/): Parliamentary Committee should Reject Bill’s Repressive Measures, Criminal Sanctions (Kampala, July 2, 2015) – Uganda’s parliamentary committee on defense and internal affairs should reject many provisions of a bill to regulate non-governmental organizations, thirteen Ugandan and international groups said today. In its current form, the bill would subject independent groups to extensive and unjustified government control and interference, and violate basic rights. The new Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) bill would grant Uganda’s internal affairs minister and the National Board for Non-governmental Organisations broad powers to supervise, approve, inspect, and dissolve all nongovernmental, community-based, and faith-based organizations, and impose severe criminal penalties for violations. […]
- [Public Hearing on NGO Bill Set; What You Need To Know](https://chapterfouruganda.org/public-hearing-on-ngo-bill-set-what-you-need-to-know/): On 22nd of June 2015, the Parliament of Uganda published an announcement dated 19th June 2015 in the New Vision newspaper inviting members of the public to a public hearing on the NGO Bill, 2015 starting at 10:00am. The purpose of the hearing is to allow people to share their opinions and input to the Parliamentary Committee of Defense and Internal Affairs as it considers the Bill. During the last few few, the committee has been meeting members of the NGO Board and Internal Affairs ministry to discuss the same Bill. Since the Bill was published in the National Gazette, […]
- [UPDATED: Further Statement on the Status of Mr. Robert Shaka](https://chapterfouruganda.org/updated-further-statement-on-the-status-of-mr-robert-shaka/): (June 12, 2015 / Kampala, Uganda) Having been detained at the Special Investigations Unit headquarters (SIU) for more than 48 hours without being granted a police bond and being produced in court, Mr. Shaka’s lawyers applied for his unconditional release on June 10, 2015. On June 11, 2015, at 9.00am in the morning, the Nakawa Chief Magistrate’s court granted an order for the unconditional release of Mr. Shaka. The order was then served to the police. Instead of releasing Mr. Shaka as ordered by court, the police, at about 4.30pm, stealthily whisked him to Buganda Road Court. They denied his request to […]
- [Uganda: NGOs State Position On Repressive NGO Bill, 2015](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-ngos-state-position-on-repressive-ngo-bill-2015/): (May 18th, 2015 / Kampala, Uganda) The gazetted Non-Governmental Organizations Bill, 2015 is a perpetuation of systemic repressive laws crafted to curtail civic spaces, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs in Uganda have said today while releasing the CSO Position Paper on the NGO Bill). Although the proposed Bill contains some progressive provisions, most of it requires reconsideration lest they curtail people’s right to freedoms of association, expression and assembly.  The Bill expressly seeks to grant the NGO Board sweeping powers to restrict, obstruct, and criminalise legitimate work of non-governmental organizations. These blanket powers are veiled in the spirit of the Bill […]
- [Uganda: NGO Bill Threatens Rights, Independent Groups](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-ngo-bill-threatens-rights-independent-groups/): (Kampala) – A proposed bill to regulate nongovernmental groups would severely curb Ugandans’ basic rights, Chapter Four Uganda and Human Rights Watch said today. The bill would subject groups to such extensive government control and interference that it could negate the very essence of freedom of association and expression. A complete version of the bill was published in the government gazette on April 10, 2015, and is expected to be debated in parliament soon. The NEW Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) bill would grant the internal affairs minister and the National Board for Non-governmental Organisations broad powers to supervise, approve, inspect, and dissolve all nongovernmental […]
- [Protecting Civic Space Report: CSOs Urged to Pursue Impact Litigation](https://chapterfouruganda.org/protecting-civic-space-report-csos-urged-to-pursue-impact-litigation/): A high-level panel of CSO actors has called on civil society in Africa to pursue impact litigation to challenge restrictive laws in domestic and regional courts, conduct research on legal framework for civic space, foster inclusive coalitions, and diversify funding sources to decrease dependence on international donors in a new report. Participants further urged the donor community to fund litigation and peaceful protests, include civil society in negotiations with governments, provide more core funding to CSOs, avail more technical assistance and capacity building, and adapt funding requirements in restrictive environments. In pursuit of a key recommendation from the Civil Society for […]
- [Where Do We Go for Justice? The Abuse of the Rights of Sexual Minorities in Uganda’s Criminal Justice System](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-where-do-we-go-for-justice-the-abuse-of-the-rights-of-sexual-minorities-in-ugandas-criminal-justice-system/): (February 27, 2015 / Kampala, Uganda) UGANDA’s criminal justice system should cease the practice of intrusive, non-consensual and dehumanizing anal/rectum examination of persons of different sexual orientation and gender identity, a new report by Chapter Four Uganda , a civil rights organization demands. In a report released on February 27, 2015, the group notes that the practice of anal/rectum examination, a routine practice in the investigation of cases against LGBTI persons, usually conducted in the presence of third parties and in unscientific manner is a violation of medical code of practice and a vile affront on the dignity of the […]
- [Defenders Celebrate Annulment of Punitive Anti-Gay Law](https://chapterfouruganda.org/gay-rights-activists-in-uganda-celebrate-annulment-of-punitive-anti-gay-law/): Reports indicate that President Yoweri Museveni has assented to the HIV Prevention and Control Act of 2010 despite widespread opposition. An official position on the assent to the law is yet to be communicated. The assent now makes the law applicable in Uganda. A person can now be charged under the law. The law was originally drafted in 2008 and introduced as a Private Member’s Bill in 2010. While purportedly a public health measure, the Act takes a punitive approach to addressing Uganda’s growing HIV problem. Public health and human rights activists object to the law, anticipating that it will […]
- [AJWS Applauds Victory of Ugandan Human Rights Groups](https://chapterfouruganda.org/american-jewish-world-service-applauds-victory-of-ugandan-human-rights-groups/): NEW YORK, American Jewish World Service (AJWS), the leading Jewish international development and human rights organization, today congratulates advocates of human rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in Uganda for their hard-won victory in persuading Uganda’s constitutional court to overturn the Anti-Homosexuality law passed by the Ugandan Parliament in December 2013 and signed by President Yoweri Museveni in February 2014. According to the organization LGBTQ Funders, AJWS is the 4th largest U.S.-based funder of international human rights advocacy for LGBT people. Over the past five years, AJWS has provided $800,000 in support of activists in Uganda, including […]
- [Africa and U.S: Invest in human rights](https://chapterfouruganda.org/africa-and-u-s-invest-in-human-rights/): Note: This article by Nicholas Opiyo, our Executive Director was first published on the CNN Last Friday, I was in Uganda’s Constitutional Court as a member of the legal team that persuaded its judges to overturn our country’s inhumane anti-homosexuality law. Today, I am in Washington for the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit “Investing in the Next Generation” with a message: Invest in human rights in Africa. It’s hard to believe that African leaders and some development experts still debate whether human rights is a “Western concept” and whether countries can grow without human rights. African leaders have been too eager to advance their own […]
- [Odoki Reappointment Unconstitutional](https://chapterfouruganda.org/odoki-reappointment-unconstitutional/): The Constitutional Court has ruled that the re-appointment of Benjamin Odoki as Chief Justice is unconstitutional. Justices Solomy Balungi Bossa,  Remmy Kasule  Lilian Tibatemwa and Eldad Mwanguhya ruled that the 1995 constitution does not provide for such reappointment. Since his re-appointment in August last year there has been a protracted legal battle among the legal fraternity over its consitutionality. President Museveni, in a letter dated August 9, 2013 to Speaker Rebeccah Kadaga, stated that, “… In exercise of powers vested in the President by Articles 142(1), 143 and 253 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, I have appointed […]
- [Meet The Lawyer Who Helped Defeat Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act](https://chapterfouruganda.org/meet-the-lawyer-who-helped-defeat-ugandas-anti-homosexuality-act/): BUZZFEED covered a story on our Executive Director, Nicolas Opiyo after his contribution to ensuring the outlawing of the barbarian Anti-Homosexuality Act in Uganda. Read his story here to find out more about him. WASHINGTON — As a child, Nicholas Opiyo would walk miles from his home in northern rural Uganda to sleep in town every night. They called kids like him “night commuters,” a generation of children who would walk miles each night to avoid being abducted by the Lord’s Resistance Army and forced into its ranks. The rebel group was fighting a fierce battle against the government of President Yoweri […]
- [Uganda Anti-Gay Law Struck Down by Court](https://chapterfouruganda.org/uganda-anti-gay-law-struck-down-by-court/): A Ugandan court struck down a punitive anti-gay law on Friday that has strained Uganda’s relations with the West, but the court ruled on narrow technical grounds, preserving the possibility that the measure could be revived. In front of an overflowing courtroom in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, a panel of five judges announced that the Anti-Homosexuality Act, which punishes some homosexual behavior with life in prison, was invalid because it had been passed by Parliament without a proper quorum. “We’re very happy,” said Sylvia Tamale, a Ugandan law professor who has supported gay rights despite persistent threats and harassment. “But it’s […]
- [President Museveni's Statement Upon Signing the Anti-Homosexuality Bill into Law](https://chapterfouruganda.org/president-musevenis-statement-upon-signing-the-anti-homosexuality-bill-into-law/): It seems the topic of homosexuals was provoked by the arrogant and careless Western groups that are fond of coming into our schools and recruiting young children into homosexuality and lesbianism, just as they carelessly handle other issues concerning Africa. Initially, I did not pay much attention to it because I was busy with the immediate issues of defence, security, electricity, the roads, the railways, factories, modernization of agriculture, etc. When, eventually, I concentrated my mind on it, I distilled three problems: It was my view that the above three should be punished harshly in order to defend our society […]
- [Chapter Four works with legislator to highlight illegality of anti-gay bill](https://chapterfouruganda.org/chapter-four-partner-with-an-mp-to-highlight-illegality-of-ugandas-anti-homosexuality-bill/): Barely two months since the controversial anti-homosexuality bill was passed by the Ugandan Parliament, chapter four, a civil human Liberties Organization and West Budama North MP also a lawyer, have joined hands to render an opinion on the constitutionality of the bill. The bill is currently awaiting President Museveni’s signature to become law. The Unwanted Witness-Uganda, has reliably learnt that the duo have critically scrutinized the passed bill and thus coming up with six opinions regarding its illegality, hence asking for Museveni’s indulgence to consider them valid by rejecting the bill. A document in which a set of six opinions are […]

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- [Teams](https://chapterfouruganda.org/teams/): Home About Us Our TEAM Our work is guided by a team of inspiring leaders and dedicated professionals with a shared commitment. Members Meet our Members who form the apex decision-making organ of the organisation. Meet our Members Board of Directors Meet our Directors who provide strategic direction, oversight, and enhance corporate governance. Meet our Board of Directors Secretariat Meet the Team that is engaged in the day-to-day operations under the leadership of our Executive Director. Meet our Secretariat Fostering people-centred and impact culture Chapter Four’s team and work are guided by core values that are at the centre of […]
- [Secretariat](https://chapterfouruganda.org/secretariat/): Our Team Secretariat
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- [Monitoring & Research](https://chapterfouruganda.org/monitoring-and-research/): Home Our Work Monitoring & Research We systematically monitor and document incidents of violations in a public repository to support evidence-based advocacy, early warning, research, and efforts to hold perpetrators accountable. Human Rights Tracker The Human Rights Tracker (HRT) is an online platform for information gathering, monitoring, and archiving information on civil liberties violations. The summarised information is visualized in an interactive web-based map platform documenting the categories of rights violated, nature of the violations, people or groups impacted by the violations, identification of the alleged perpetrator, and brief details of the incident. The tool aims to support evidence-based human […]
- [Know Your Rights](https://chapterfouruganda.org/know-your-rights/): Home Our Work Know Your Rights We aim to simplify and raise awareness about legal rights and obligations, empowering individuals to protect their own rights, defend the rights of others, seek justice, and advocate effectively within their communities. Featured Right Read More SEARCH Related News Latest news and stories related to this More on this Support our ongoing Advocacy work Donate
- [Advocacy & Campaigns](https://chapterfouruganda.org/advocacy-and-campaigns/): Home Our Work Advocacy & Campaigns As a human rights-thought leader, we defend existing rights, expose violations, convene strategic engagements, and use analysis to push the boundaries of social consciousness to advance rights and freedoms Human Rights Convention Chapter Four’s Human Rights Convention (HRC) is an annual convening that brings together over 30 eminent speakers to engage with 250 stakeholders on key civil liberties issues of the year. It is also a space to honour and celebrate the Civil Liberties Defender of the Year. Visit Site to Learn More Legislative Advocacy Our Legislative Advocacy Program drives transformative legal reforms to […]
- [General Counsel for CSOs](https://chapterfouruganda.org/general-counsel-for-csos/): Home Our Work General Counsel for CSOs We provide legal advice and other strategic support to civil society organisations (CSOs) to advance CSO resilience in Uganda. Since 2014, Chapter Four has been a steadfast legal partner to CSOs in Uganda, empowering their resilience through expert legal advice and support. Our services include facilitating legal registration, compliance clinics, and strategic support to navigate complex regulatory frameworks. Beyond direct assistance, Chapter Four offers authoritative legal opinions and in-depth analysis on Uganda’s civil society operating environment to partners and stakeholders. Committed to safeguarding civil society’s vital role, we provide the knowledge and guidance […]
- [Legal Aid](https://chapterfouruganda.org/legal-aid/): Home Our Work Legal Aid We work at police stations and courts to provide first-line legal support to human rights defenders, pro-democracy advocates, and underrepresented individuals to secure their release on bond, bail, and safeguard fair trial rights. Featured Case Read More All Cases..OngoingClosed SEARCH Status: Status: Related News Latest news and stories related to this More on this Support our ongoing Advocacy work Donate
- [Strategic Litigation](https://chapterfouruganda.org/strategic-and-litigation/): Home Our Work STRATEGIC LITIGATION Our strategic and public interest litigation program aims to achieve systemic social change, uphold the rule of law, and generate jurisprudence that advances civil liberties. Featured Case Read More All Cases..OngoingClosed SEARCH Status: Status: Status: Status: Status: Status: Related News Latest news and stories related to this More on this Support our ongoing Advocacy work Donate
- [Equality & Non-Discrimination](https://chapterfouruganda.org/equality-and-non-discrimination/): Home Issues EQUALITY & NON-DISCRIMINATION We use the law to challenge all forms of discrimination, to promote fairness, respect, and dignity for all individuals, and to build an inclusive society where equality is a reality. What You Need to Know 0 The year when the colonial-era Penal Code Act was enacted. It established the criminal offence of ‘unnatural offence’, which criminalised carnal knowledge of any person against the order of nature. On conviction, a person faces imprisonment for life. 0 The year when Uganda’s first Anti-Homosexuality Act was enacted by the Parliament of Uganda. The law expanded the criminalisation of […]
- [Human Dignity](https://chapterfouruganda.org/human-dignity/): Home Issues HUMAN DIGNITY Torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment degrades and humiliates individuals, stripping away their dignity. We work to end torture in Uganda in all its forms. What You Need to Know 0 The year when Uganda’s Parliament enacted the Prevention and Prohibition of Torture Act, a law prohibiting and criminalising torture. 0 The average number of new torture allegations documented by the African Centre for Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture Victims. 0 At least 54 civilians were killed by government security forces in extrajudicial killings during the November 2020 Kampala protests.  FAQs What is […]
- [Civic Space](https://chapterfouruganda.org/civic-space/): Home Issues CIVIC SPACE We work to defend and promote the freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly to safeguard civic space. Learn more about what is at stake and what we are focused on below. What You Need to Know 0 The year when the Constitution of Uganda was promulgated. It provides legal protection for the freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association. 0 Despite the constitutional guarantees, Uganda’s civic space is often classified as “Repressed” by Freedom House due to significant restrictions on freedom of association, assembly & expression. 0 The number of laws that Chapter Four Uganda […]
- [Criminal Justice Reform](https://chapterfouruganda.org/criminal-justice-reform/): Home Issues CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM We advocate for criminal justice reforms to end arbitrary arrests, mass incarceration, long pre-trial detention, wrongful convictions, and promote prosecutorial and committal process reform.  What You Need to Know 0 The official number of inmates/prisoners Uganda’s prisons are designed to hold. 0 Approximate population of inmates in Uganda’s prisons, exceeding official capacity by about 259% resulting in an overcrowding rate of 360%. 0 Pre-trial/remand detainees constitute around 47.1% of the prison population, illustrating significant delays in the justice system. FAQs What is criminal justice? Criminal justice is the system that deals with crimes and those […]
- [Partners](https://chapterfouruganda.org/partners/): Home About Us OUR PARTNERS We are proud to collaborate with a diverse range of partners who share our commitment for a just, fair, and equal society PARTNERS NETWORKS & COALITIONS
- [Mission, Vision & Values](https://chapterfouruganda.org/mission-vision-values/): Home About Us Mission, Vision & Values OUR MISSION Our mission is ‘Protecting Human Rights, Defending Freedoms’.  We believe that it is not enough to raise awareness about human rights abuses. We all have a moral and legal obligation to do more to ensure dignity and equality for all. We commit to an unwavering duty and responsibility to act by using the law and all legal means to bring to account any abuse or threatened abuse of human rights without discrimination of any kind. We galvanize our legal expertise and networks to challenge human rights violations, demand legal accountability, and […]
- [Careers](https://chapterfouruganda.org/careers/): Home About Us CAREERS Join a Team Committed to a Just Society Chapter Four is an equal opportunity employer. We invite professionals who are committed to advancing civil liberties to consider joining our dynamic team. Explore this page for opportunities to contribute to our work of defending and promoting fundamental rights and freedoms on the frontlines. We foster an inclusive, innovative, and empowering workplace where your skills and dedication deliver justice to hundreds and drive impactful change. Building a fairer world together A message from our Executive Director At Chapter Four, we foster an inclusive, collaborative environment where diverse voices […]
- [Approach](https://chapterfouruganda.org/approach/): Home About Us Approach Our Approach Introduction We galvanize our legal expertise and networks to challenge human rights violations, demand legal accountability, and advocate for progressive policy and practice reform. In the process, we employ a range of legal mechanisms to achieve our objectives. These mechanisms range from conducting human rights investigations, offering probono legal assistance, filing strategic and public interest cases, and supporting civil society organisations to thrive in narrowing civic space. Our Approach Research and Investigate We follow the evidence of human rights abuse to wherever and whoever it leads us. We carry out research and investigations in […]
- [History](https://chapterfouruganda.org/history/): Home About Us Our History History Introduction Chapter Four Uganda was formed in 2013 drawing inspiration from the works of other civil liberties organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union. It seeks to become a vocal and principled defender of constitutionally-guaranteed rights across a spectrum of issues without limitation based on ethnic, religious, or other group identity, political affiliation or sexual orientation. Feasibility Study In 2012, a feasibility study conducted by eminent lawyers and civil society experts, Ms. Ashanut Okille, Dr. Kabumba Busingye, and Mr. Dan Ngabirano, concluded that although several initiatives have been undertaken to promote human rights […]
- [Home](https://chapterfouruganda.org/): PROTECTING RIGHTS, DEFENDING FREEDOMS We stand as a beacon of hope – defending civil liberties, ensuring every voice is heard, and every right is protected. Donate NGOs supported 0 HRCs held 0 Strategic cases 0 HRDs supported 0 Over a decade of working on cutting-edge civil liberties issues for a just and equal society Established in 2013, we are an independent and principled defender of civil liberties for all.  More About Us Our Priorities Our interventions are focused on addressing what is at stake under the following key issues. Civic Space Chapter Four works in communities, courts, and parliament to […]
- [News & Stories](https://chapterfouruganda.org/news-and-stories/): Home News & Stories Our Library News Stories Podcast Resources Videos Photos Upcoming Events Featured News Read More SEARCH Featured Story Read More SEARCH Share this Introduction The Chapter Four Legacy Podcast brings together seasoned human rights defenders, victims/survivors of human rights violations, academics, and policy makers to discuss the human rights situation in Uganda. SEARCH Listen Listen Listen Resources & Publications Access in-depth resources and analysis published by Chapter Four Uganda regarding our most pressing civil liberties issues. Featured Publication Read report Publications Acts Bills Judgments PUBLICATIONS SEARCH Read Read Read Read Read Read ACTS SEARCH Read Read Read […]


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