Nicholas Opiyo Steps Down From Chapter Four Uganda

Mr Opiyo has not yet publicly announced his resignation but told the Nile Post that the resignation was ‘’all voluntary and planned over the last four years.’’

Nicholas Opiyo, the founder and long-serving Executive Director of Chapter Four Uganda, has stepped down from his leadership role after more than a decade at the helm.

His departure marks the conclusion of an era defined by relentless advocacy for human rights, legal reforms, and unwavering commitment to civil liberties in Uganda.

Opiyo, a distinguished human rights lawyer, founded Chapter Four Uganda in 2013 to fill a critical gap in the structured defence of civil liberties.

Over the years, the organisation has grown into a formidable force in legal advocacy, challenging repressive laws and championing the rights of marginalised groups.

Under his leadership, Chapter Four played a crucial role in the legal battle that led to the nullification of Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act and was instrumental in pushing for laws criminalising torture, setting new legal precedents for human rights in Uganda.

Born in Gulu, northern Uganda, in 1980 during a period of violent conflict, Opiyo’s early experiences shaped his deep-seated commitment to justice.

After earning a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from Uganda Christian University in 2004 and a postgraduate diploma from the Law Development Centre in 2005, he embarked on a career dedicated to defending political and civil rights, with a particular focus on electoral law, freedom of assembly, speech, and the press.

Opiyo’s advocacy has not come without personal sacrifices. He has faced multiple arrests and legal battles, yet his resolve has remained unshaken.

His impact has been recognised globally, earning him prestigious awards such as the Human Rights Watch Voices for Justice Award (2015), the Alison Des Forges Award for extraordinary activism (2015), and the German Africa Prize (2017).

These accolades underscore his influence in shaping the human rights discourse, both in Uganda and internationally.

The transition at Chapter Four has been in the making for four years, with meticulous planning to ensure continuity.

Dr Zahara Nampewo, chair of the Chapter Four Board, commended Opiyo’s visionary leadership, noting that his personal sacrifices and dedication have set the organisation on a trajectory of unparalleled excellence.

To carry forward this legacy, the Board has appointed Anthony Masake, a long-serving member of the Chapter Four team, as the new Executive Director.

Angelo Izama, the Board Secretary, expressed confidence in Masake’s ability to steer the organisation into the future.

Opiyo has assured that his resignation was voluntary and part of a well-thought-out transition strategy.

''Chapter Four will be here and stronger,'' Opiyo told the Nile Post.

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.