The World Liberty Congress condemns the arbitrary arrest of our member, Sarah Bireete—a respected Ugandan lawyer and Executive Director of the Centre for Constitutional Governance—reportedly taken into custody without disclosed charges.

Coming at a moment of heightened political tension ahead of Uganda’s upcoming elections, her detention raises urgent concerns about escalating repression and the intimidation of independent civic voices.

We are equally alarmed by reports that the authorities have publicly listed other WLC members and allied human rights defenders, placing them at heightened risk of abduction, arrest, and harassment in the days and months ahead.

WLC calls for Ms. Bireete’s immediate release, full access to counsel and due process, and an end to the targeting of human rights defenders and pro-democracy advocates in Africa—and we urge Ugandan authorities to ensure free, fair, and peaceful elections in which all citizens can participate without fear.