Kampala: On January 12, 2026, days before Uganda's national elections scheduled for January 15, the National Bureau for Non-Governmental Organizations issued an order for at least 10 nongovernmental organizations to cease their operations indefinitely. These suspended organizations encompass human rights, media, and election monitoring entities.
According to African Press Organization, the bureau claimed it received intelligence indicating that the groups are involved in activities contrary to Ugandan law and announced ongoing investigations. However, no additional details were provided regarding the nature of these activities.
Ashwanee Budoo-Scholtz, deputy Africa director at Human Rights Watch, commented on the situation, noting that the indefinite suspension of organizations on vague, unsubstantiated grounds reflects Uganda's disregard for free speech and freedom of association. She urged the government to revoke these suspensions immediately.