Uganda: Human rights activist Nicholas Opiyo quits Chapter Four
‘My human rights work will continue at a different address’
Nicholas Opiyo, Uganda’s renowned human rights layer and founder of Chapter Four Uganda, a leading civil liberties and human rights organization, has relinquished his position as the organization’s Executive Director, a position he held since 2013.
The organization board appointed Anthony Masake, a long serving staffer at Chapter Four Uganda, as the new executive director.
Masake’s appointment was announced on the organization’s official X (former twitter) account as follows:
We’re excited to welcome our new Executive Director, @masakeonline
A long-serving staffer, Anthony Masake brings deep experience from the frontlines of using the law to defend and advance respect for civil liberties in Uganda’s context.
“After a decade of service and learning, I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to lead the incredible team at Chapter Four Uganda,” said Anthony Masake. “Having big shoes to fill presents challenges, but also great opportunities. I am confident that together, we’ll build on the exceptional leadership and success of my predecessor, @nickopiyo, for a fairer and more just country.” #HumanRights | #Uganda
Chapter Four, known for its advocacy in legal support, civic rights, and freedom of expression, has played a crucial role in defending individuals and minority groups against human rights violations.
Specifically, under Opiyo’s leadership, Chapter Four played a crucial role in the legal battle that led to the nullification of Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act in 2014 and remains instrumental in pushing for the nullification of AHA 2023.
“My human rights work will continue at a different address, which will be announced in due course”, Opiyo said.
Opiyo has assured us that his resignation was voluntary and part of a well-thought-out transition strategy.
”Chapter Four will be here and stronger,” Opiyo told the NilePost.
While he has not publicly disclosed his next steps, his influence on Uganda’s legal and civil rights landscape remains undeniable. As he steps aside, he leaves behind a legacy of courage, resilience, and transformative advocacy.
His tenure has strengthened Uganda’s civil society and expanded the boundaries of human rights jurisprudence, ensuring that Chapter Four Uganda will continue to be a bulwark for justice and accountability under its new leadership.
Dr. Zahara Nampewo, the chairperson of the Chapter Four Uganda board, commended Opiyo for visionary leadership, noting that his personal sacrifices and dedication have set the organisation on a trajectory of unparalleled excellence.
“His vision and commitment have left a lasting impact on legal advocacy and human rights in Uganda” ,Nampewo told local media.
Angelo Izama, the Chapter Four Uganda board secretary, said; “As a leading attorney in public interest litigation, Opiyo has been an unapologetic defender if human rights often at a great personal cost. His commitment has expanded the boundaries of jurisprudence especially in the outlawing of torture and realizing the constitutional aspirations of equality for all before the law and constitution”.
The announcement of his resignation has stirred discussions within Uganda’s civil society about the future direction of human rights advocacy in the country. While many celebrate his contributions, there’s an underlying concern about filling the void left by such a prominent figure. However, Angelo Izama expressed confidence in Masake’s ability to steer the organisation into the future.
Beyond his work at Chapter Four Uganda, Opiyo has played a vital role in both national and international human rights campaigns. He previously served as an expert adviser to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Rights to Peaceful Assembly and Association.
His works have earned him several prestigious awards including the Dutch Human Rights Tulip Award in 2021 and the German Africa Prize in 2017, among others.
In his farewell message, Opiyo expressed gratitude to his colleagues, the legal fraternity and development partners and promised that his human rights advocacy work will continue elsewhere..
“Since the inception of Chapter Four, I have dedicated myself to defending fundamental human rights without discrimination. That mission continues, albeit from a new platform which I will reveal soon” Opiyo stated.
For more information:
On Dec. 4, 2023, we published a story ‘Gay or not gay, Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act is coming for you,’ human rights lawyer warns. The article shows Opiyo’s leading role in ongoing legal efforts to overturn AHA 2023 in Uganda.
