The detention was confirmed by police in a post on the social media platform X on Tuesday, identifying Bireete as being in custody.
Police in Uganda have arrested prominent human rights activist Sarah Bireete amid a widening crackdown on dissent ahead of the January 15 general election.
The detention was confirmed by police in a post on the social media platform X on Tuesday, identifying Bireete as being in custody.
“The uganda police force would like to confirm the arrest of Sarah Bireete director for center for constitutional governance,” the police said.
“She is in police custody. She will be arraigned before court in due course,” the police added without stating when she would appear in court or the charges she faces.
|| @KawalaRachael The uganda police force would like to confirm the arrest of Sarah Bireete director for center for constitutional governance.
She is in police custody. She will be arraigned before court in due course
— Uganda Police Force (@PoliceUg) December 30, 2025
Bireete is a lawyer and the executive director of the Centre for Constitutional Governance (CCG), and is known for her frequent criticism of the government on local television and radio programmes.
She has spoken out against several government actions, including what opposition groups describe as illegal detentions and the torture of their supporters.
Uganda’s January election will see President Yoweri Museveni, 81, who has been in power since 1986, seek to extend his rule against pop-star-turned-politician Bobi Wine, 43.
The President has consistently faced accusations of authoritarianism. Each election cycle has been marked by increased repression.
Uganda is facing an intensifying crackdown on opposition politicians, activists, and dissenting voices, particularly ahead of the January 2026 general elections. Reports highlight mass arrests, use of military courts against civilians, and restrictions on media freedom.
At least 550 individuals, including members and supporters of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP), have been arrested since early 2025. Over 300 arrests occurred after campaigning began in September.
High-profile figures such as Kizza Besigye were abducted abroad, in Nairobi, Kenya, and later arraigned in Ugandan military courts, raising concerns about extraordinary rendition and violations of international law.
Journalists and media outlets face harassment, censorship, and intimidation, limiting coverage of opposition activities and curbing freedom of expression.
The United Nations Human Rights Office and other organizations have publicly criticized Uganda’s government, urging respect for human rights before, during, and after elections.