In a move described by critics as the “height of cowardice,” the Ugandan government has launched a sweeping crackdown on the country’s most prominent Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) just 48 hours before the January 15, 2026 General Election. The closures target organizations primarily focused on election transparency, human rights, and media freedom, sparking international concern over the integrity of the upcoming vote.
Targeted Organizations and the “Crime” of Monitoring
The list of suspended organizations reads like a directory of Uganda’s democratic watchdogs. Leading the list are:
Chapter Four Uganda: Known for defending constitutional rights and civil liberties.
Alliance for Election Finance Monitoring (ACFIM): An organization that tracks political spending.
Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda (HRNJ-U): A vocal advocate for press freedom.
National NGO Forum & National Coalition of Human Rights Defenders: Umbrella bodies that coordinate civic action.
The timing of these shutdowns is no coincidence. ACFIM, for instance, gained notoriety after the last election for exposing the use of billions in taxpayer money to influence results. By silencing these groups now, the regime effectively removes the “eyes and ears” of the public during the most sensitive window of the electoral process.
The Arrest of Dr. Sarah Bireete
The crackdown isn’t limited to organizations; it has become deeply personal. Dr. Sarah Bireete, Executive Director of the Centre for Constitutional Governance and a leading voice in the East and Horn of Africa Election Observers Network, remains in detention.
While authorities have cited charges related to “unlawful disclosure of personal data,” human rights groups like Amnesty International have labeled her detention arbitrary. Her real “offense” appears to be her tireless work in educating the masses and her recent advocacy for digital safeguards against state-mandated internet shutdowns.
A Pattern of Repression
This is not a new tactic for the current administration. In every major election cycle, NGOs are accused of “activities prejudicial to security”—a vague legal catch-all used to stifle dissent. In reality, these organizations are being punished for refusing to “sanitize” a political environment marked by intimidation and the brutalization of journalists.
The message from the state is clear: anyone attempting to monitor, report, or demand accountability is a threat to the status quo.
The Path Forward: Solidarity at the Ballot Box
As these organizations face forced silence, the burden of accountability shifts to the Ugandan citizens. The international community and local activists are calling for solidarity with the detained leaders and the shuttered NGOs.
