There was relief among civil society actors in Uganda after rights defenders Eunice Musiime and Sarah Bireete were released hours after their reported abduction by military personnel.
The two had been taken earlier in the day following a raid on Musiime’s residence, an incident that had sparked concern over increasing pressure on activists.
Bireete confirmed their release in a brief statement, saying, “I was dropped back with Musiimee,” indicating that both were freed together after being held for several hours under unclear circumstances.
Their whereabouts had remained unknown since armed men reportedly laid siege to Musiime’s home and took them away.
The Center for Constitutional Governance (COG), where Bireete serves as Executive Director, also confirmed the development through a post on X.
“Our Executive Director Sarah Bireete and Executive Director of Haki ZaWanawake wa Kiafrika, Musiimee have been released, following their abduction earlier today... THANK YOU ALL!” the organisation said, signaling relief among colleagues and supporters.
The two activists had been picked up shortly after reports emerged that military officers had surrounded Musiime’s residence. Bireete had reportedly gone to check on Musiime when she was also caught up in the operation.
Earlier, Musiime’s offices had been raided by security personnel in what her lawyer linked to efforts to locate former minister Miria Matembe.
Despite their release, authorities have not issued any official statement explaining the arrests, detention, or subsequent release.
The lack of communication has raised questions about the legal basis of the operation and the broader implications for civil liberties.
Civil society groups have continued to express concern over what they describe as a pattern of intimidation targeting activists and organisations.
The brief detention of two prominent figures in the governance and women’s rights space is likely to intensify scrutiny on security agencies and their conduct.
While Musiime and Bireete are now free, observers note that the incident highlights growing unease within Uganda’s civic space, particularly amid ongoing political tensions linked to high-profile figures like Matembe.