The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has opposed a bail application filed by governance advocate Dr Sarah Bireete before the Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court, arguing that the legal requirements for her release have not been met. The Court has deferred its decision to January 28, 2026.

Dr Bireete, the Executive Director of the Centre for Constitutional Governance, was arrested and remanded to Luzira Prison on January 2, 2026. She is facing charges related to the alleged unlawful acquisition and disclosure of voters’ information without authorisation from the Electoral Commission. The prosecution alleges that the conduct may contravene provisions of the Data Protection and Privacy Act, with incidents said to have occurred in Kampala, Mukono, and Wakiso districts between January and December 2025. She has denied the charges.

The case is being handled by Senior Principal Grade One Magistrate Winnie Nankya Jatiko. During the bail hearing, the prosecution, represented by Chief State Attorney Joan Keko from the Office of the DPP, opposed the application, submitting that the proposed sureties did not meet the legal standards required by court. The prosecution argued that courts must be satisfied that sureties are capable of ensuring an accused person’s continued appearance, including the ability to meet financial obligations should bail conditions be breached.

The state also challenged the reliance on health-related grounds, submitting that bail on such grounds requires clear proof that appropriate care cannot be provided while an accused person remains in lawful custody. According to the prosecution, this threshold had not been met.

In addition, the prosecution argued that Dr Bireete’s public profile and leadership role within civil society could present a risk of interference with investigations, including potential influence over evidence or witnesses. The defence, however, maintained that the case is based largely on documentary material.

Counsel for the defence, led by Jude Byamukama, informed court that the legal team intends to file a separate application challenging the charges and the jurisdiction of the trial court.

The magistrate ordered that Dr Bireete remain on remand until January 28, 2026, when the court is expected to rule on the bail application.

URN