The Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court has deferred its ruling on a bail application filed by detained human rights activist Sarah Bireete, extending her stay in custody as she faces charges related to the alleged unlawful handling of voters’ data.
The ruling will now be delivered on January 28, 2026, after the prosecution asked for additional time to verify the suitability and financial capacity of the sureties presented by the defence.
Bireete, through her lawyers led by Uganda Law Society vice president Anthony Asiimwe, asked the court to grant her bail, arguing that she is a law-abiding citizen with a fixed place of residence and substantial sureties, and that she poses no risk of absconding.
Her lawyers also submitted that she suffers from hypertension and requires consistent medical care. They further told court that investigations are still ongoing and that the offences she is charged with are bailable under Ugandan law, making her eligible for temporary release.
The State opposed the application, describing the matter as sensitive and questioning the credibility of the four proposed sureties. Prosecutors argued that the sureties failed to demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to guarantee Bireete’s return to court if released.
The prosecution also rejected the medical grounds raised by the defence, stating that no evidence had been presented to show that prison health facilities are unable to manage her condition.
The State further warned that Bireete’s influence as a public figure could lead to interference with witnesses if she is granted bail.
According to prosecutors, Bireete, together with others still at large, allegedly between January and December 2025 unlawfully obtained or disclosed National Voters’ Information at various locations across the country, including Kampala, Mukono and Wakiso districts.
The data is said to be under the custody and control of the Electoral Commission and was allegedly accessed or disclosed without the Commission’s prior consent.
The court adjourned the matter and will deliver its ruling on the bail application on January 28, 2026, as the case continues to attract attention from legal and civil society actors.
