Human rights activist and civil society leader Dr Sarah Bireete has broken her silence following her release on bail after spending nearly a month in detention, thanking supporters for standing with her and vowing to continue advocating for the rule of law, justice and accountability.
Bireete was arrested on December 30, 2025, and remained in custody until January 28, 2026, when the court granted her bail. She was released on a cash bail of Shs1 million, with two sureties bonded Shs10 million non-cash each, and ordered to deposit her passport with the court as part of the bail conditions.
In an appreciation message shared on her social media platforms shortly after her release, Bireete expressed gratitude to lawyers, family, friends, civil society actors and supporters who rallied behind her during her detention.
“I would like to sincerely thank everyone who stood by me and my family during my arrest and detention from 30th December 2025 to 28th January 2026,” Bireete wrote. “Your courage, solidarity, prayers, family visits, phone calls, legal support, advocacy, and words of encouragement gave me strength during this difficult period.”
She specifically acknowledged her lawyers, fellow human rights defenders, election observers, civil society colleagues, regional and international organisations, media partners and well-wishers for speaking out and refusing to remain silent.
“Your actions reminded me that justice, dignity, and human rights are upheld not by one person, but by a community that refuses to be intimidated,” she said.
Bireete said her detention had only strengthened her resolve to continue speaking out on governance and human rights issues.
“This experience has strengthened my resolve to continue standing for truth, justice, accountability, and the protection of fundamental freedoms,” she noted.
Reflecting on her time in detention, the activist described adversity as a test of character, linking her experience to the broader struggles faced by pro-democracy actors.
“Adversity acts as the ultimate crucible for character, stripping away pretence and revealing an individual’s core values, resilience, and integrity,” she said, adding: “The struggle is our life.”
Emotional scenes were witnessed outside the court following her release, as supporters held prayers, moments of thanksgiving, and shared messages of solidarity. Religious leaders and civil society actors welcomed her freedom but stressed that the legal process must be handled fairly.
While celebrating her release, Bireete’s supporters emphasised that the case is still ongoing and called on authorities to uphold due process, respect human rights and guarantee the rule of law as proceedings continue.
