Nicholas Opiyo Steps Down as Executive Director of Chapter Four Uganda

Nicholas Opiyo has resigned as Executive Director of Chapter Four Uganda, a leading human rights organization he founded. Anthony Masake has been appointed as his successor. Opiyo’s leadership was instrumental in significant legal victories for civil liberties in Uganda, including the annulment of the Anti-Homosexuality Act. He plans to continue his human rights work from a new platform, ensuring his legacy influences future advocacy efforts.

Nicholas Opiyo, a prominent human rights lawyer in Uganda and founder of Chapter Four Uganda, has stepped down as Executive Director after a decade of service. The organization has appointed Anthony Masake, a long-serving staff member, as the new executive director, marking a significant transition within this key civil liberties group.

In a message shared via the organization’s official X account, Masake acknowledged the challenge of following Opiyo’s legacy, expressing his commitment to continue advancing civil liberties in Uganda. He stated, “After a decade of service and learning, I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to lead the incredible team at Chapter Four Uganda.”

Under Opiyo’s leadership, Chapter Four played a pivotal role in legal battles, notably contributing to the nullification of Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act in 2014. While he emphasized that his resignation was a part of a planned transition, Opiyo indicated that his human rights advocacy would persist from a different platform.

Dr. Zahara Nampewo, the chairperson of the Chapter Four board, commended Opiyo’s leadership and contributions, affirming that his efforts have significantly impacted human rights advocacy in Uganda. Similarly, board secretary Angelo Izama recognized Opiyo as a defender of human rights, advocating for justice at considerable personal cost.

Although discussions have emerged regarding the future of human rights work in Uganda, many remain optimistic about Masake’s potential to guide Chapter Four through this transition. Beyond his tenure at Chapter Four, Opiyo has contributed to international human rights campaigns, earning accolades such as the Dutch Human Rights Tulip Award in 2021.

In his farewell, Opiyo expressed gratitude to his colleagues and reassured supporters that he would continue advocating for human rights. “Since the inception of Chapter Four, I have dedicated myself to defending fundamental human rights without discrimination,” he affirmed, hinting at forthcoming news regarding his future endeavors.

Nicholas Opiyo’s resignation as Executive Director of Chapter Four Uganda marks a significant moment for human rights advocacy in the country. While Anthony Masake steps into this important role, the impact of Opiyo’s legacy will continue to resonate through Uganda’s civil rights landscape. His dedication to human rights and legal advocacy sets a strong foundation for the organization’s future direction, ensuring that the fight for justice and accountability persists further under new leadership.

Original Source: 76crimes.com