Nicholas Opiyo has stepped down as Executive Director of Chapter Four Uganda, a notable human rights organization he founded. Anthony Masake has been appointed as his successor. Opiyo plans to continue his human rights advocacy from a new platform, while Masake aims to build upon Opiyo’s legacy. The transition has ignited discussions about the future direction of human rights efforts in Uganda.
Nicholas Opiyo, a prominent human rights lawyer and founder of Chapter Four Uganda, has resigned from his position as Executive Director, a role he occupied since 2013. The organization’s board has appointed Anthony Masake, a long-serving staff member, as his successor, aiming to carry on the mission of advancing civil liberties and human rights in Uganda. The announcement was made on their official X (formerly Twitter) account, highlighting Masake’s experience and dedication to the cause.
In his inaugural statement as the new Executive Director, Anthony Masake expressed honor in leading Chapter Four Uganda, acknowledging the challenges ahead but affirming his commitment to build upon the foundation laid by Opiyo. Under his leadership, Chapter Four has been pivotal in legal advocacy, notably in its successful fight against Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act in 2014, and remains committed to continuing this advocacy.
While Nicholas Opiyo has not publicly announced his next endeavors, he conveyed that his commitment to human rights will persist from a new location, emphasizing that his resignation was a voluntarily planned transition for Chapter Four. He reassured the public, stating, “Chapter Four will be here and stronger.”
Dr. Zahara Nampewo, chairperson of the Chapter Four Uganda board, praised Opiyo for his visionary leadership, acknowledging the significant impact of his work in legal advocacy and human rights within Uganda. Additionally, board secretary Angelo Izama noted Opiyo’s formidable role in public interest litigation, highlighting his relentless dedication to expanding legal protections against human rights abuses.
Opiyo’s resignation has sparked dialogue regarding the future of human rights efforts in Uganda, with hopes that Masake will successfully lead the organization forward. Beyond his contributions at Chapter Four, Opiyo holds a distinguished role in both national and international human rights advocacy, having previously advised the United Nations on the rights to peaceful assembly and association. He is also the recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Dutch Human Rights Tulip Award in 2021.
In a heartfelt farewell, Opiyo extended gratitude to his colleagues and supporters, affirming that his mission to defend human rights would continue through other means, stating, “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.”
Nicholas Opiyo’s resignation from Chapter Four Uganda marks a significant transition in Uganda’s human rights landscape. His departure raises questions about the future of the organization, although there is confidence in Anthony Masake’s leadership. Opiyo’s profound legacy in advocating for civil liberties reinforces the crucial work done at Chapter Four, ensuring the continuity of human rights initiatives in Uganda.
Original Source: 76crimes.com
