By Africanews
Ugandan human rights lawyer Nicholas Opiyo, who represents opposition leader Bobi Wine, was arrested on Tuesday on allegations of money laundering, police confirmed.
Opiyo, the founder of the prominent rights group Chapter Four Uganda, has been a vocal advocate for political freedom and a defender of many activists. His arrest follows growing international criticism of Uganda’s crackdown on political opposition, freedom of speech, and assembly. Last year, the government introduced new regulations that curtail online activity and suppress independent media.
The Uganda Police Force posted a tweet confirming Opiyo’s arrest, citing “allegations of money laundering and related malicious acts.” They added that investigations are ongoing and that updates will be provided when necessary.
Opiyo, along with three other lawyers—Herbert Dakasi, Anthony Odur, and Esomu Obure—was detained by the Special Investigations Division. Chapter Four Uganda issued a statement expressing concern over Opiyo’s “abduction and incommunicado detention,” while Amnesty International condemned the “arbitrary arrest” and called for his release.
Bobi Wine, a former pop star turned political leader, was also arrested in November, triggering violent protests that led to the deaths of 37 individuals. Wine is seen as the main challenger to Uganda’s long-time president, Yoweri Museveni, who is seeking a sixth term in the upcoming elections. The exact cause of the deaths remains unclear, but police reported that most victims suffered gunshot wounds and other traumatic injuries.
Opiyo, who had previously defended Wine during his earlier arrest, had stated that Wine’s detainment was framed as a violation of coronavirus restrictions. However, he claimed that the true motive was to suppress opposition campaigns.
Rights groups continue to raise alarms over the government’s increasing use of legal and security measures to silence opposition voices ahead of next year’s elections.