Kampala, Uganda — A Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court has on Wednesday denied bail to Dr. Sarah Bireete, the Executive Director of the Centre for Constitutional Governance (CCG), extending her stay on remand as legal proceedings continue.

Dr. Bireete appeared before court today, where her lawyers sought her temporary release. However, the court declined to grant bail and adjourned the matter to January 28, 2026, when it will give further direction on the case.

The session was presided over by Grade One Magistrate Winnie Nankya Jatiko, who ordered that Dr. Bireete remain in custody at Luzira Prison until the next hearing date. Court Proceedings During today’s appearance, the prosecution maintained its opposition to the bail application, citing ongoing investigations and procedural considerations.

The defence argued that Dr. Bireete is a known public figure with a fixed place of abode and no risk of absconding, and that the offences she faces are bailable under Ugandan law. After hearing submissions from both sides, the magistrate ruled that the court was not ready to grant bail at this stage and instead adjourned the proceedings to allow the matter to progress further.

Background to the Case

Dr. Bireete, a prominent governance and constitutional law expert, is facing charges related to the alleged unlawful obtaining or disclosure of personal data, contrary to provisions of the Data Protection and Privacy Act. The prosecution alleges that the case involves unauthorised access to information linked to the National Voters’ Register, which is managed by the Electoral Commission.She has previously pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Reactions and Wider Context

The continued detention of Dr. Bireete has attracted attention from civil society organisations, legal practitioners, and human rights defenders, many of whom were present in court today. Some expressed concern over the repeated denial of bail, arguing that prolonged pre-trial detention undermines constitutional guarantees of liberty and due process.Dr. Bireete is widely known for her work on democratic governance, constitutionalism, and accountability, and her case is being closely watched amid heightened political and civic tensions in the country.What NextThe court is expected to revisit the matter on January 28, 2026, when it may give further guidance on bail or the next steps in the trial process. Until then, Dr. Bireete will remain on remand at Luzira.The case continues to draw national attention, raising broader questions about the treatment of civil society leaders and the application of bail in politically sensitive cases.

The New Light Paper