On 31st January 2025, the Supreme Court of Uganda ruled that trying civilians in military courts for criminal offences is unconstitutional. However, the Ugandan authorities have ignored this decision, continuing their crackdown on opposition figures and legal practitioners. The conviction of lawyer Eron Kiiza by the General Court Martial for “contempt of court” and his subsequent nine-month imprisonment is a direct attack on legal defenders and a chilling attempt to silence those who dare to challenge repression.

• Ensure no harm comes to the detainees and uphold their fundamental rights.
• Cease the unconstitutional prosecution of civilians in military courts and review all cases of civilians currently facing military trials
• Investigate death threats against Kizza Besigye by President Museveni’s son, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and take immediate action to protect his life.
• Amend the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces Act, 2005, in line with the Supreme Court directive to limit military court jurisdiction and align it with constitutional and international human rights standards.

To the Kenyan Authorities

• Acknowledge that abductions and renditions have occurred on Kenyan soil—actions that may constitute crimes under international law—and commit to impartial investigations and accountability.
• End complicity in transnational repression and take decisive steps to prevent further renditions.

A day after our press conference, Kizza Besigye and others were presented in a civilian court—an initial victory, but far from justice. Determined to keep up the pressure, on 24th February, we took to the streets to deliver petitions to the National Assembly and the Ugandan High Commission. In a rare shift, the Kenyan police facilitated our peaceful protest, allowing us to exercise our constitutional right without violence. Our petition, received by MPs Danson Mwanzo and Yusuf Hassan, outlined clear demands:

• The National Assembly must investigate Kenya’s involvement in renditions and ensure accountability for those responsible.
• National security organs must be summoned to explain the measures taken to investigate and prevent further renditions.
• Parliament must commit to ending these human rights violations and guaranteeing non-repetition.

At the Ugandan High Commission, our calls for justice were met with closed doors—literally. Their offices were shut, and no representative came forward to receive our petition. Undeterred, we pinned our demands to the embassy gates, making it clear: Uganda must release all illegally detained individuals, uphold human rights, and halt its slide into authoritarianism.

The fight for justice continues. We will not relent. Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

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But Soi COC refused to let this brutality be swept under the rug. They immediately escalated the matter to the Soi Sub-County Children’s Officer, triggering legal action. Community members mobilized to ensure the boy received urgent medical care, a P3 form to document his injuries, and that law enforcement officially recorded the case.

Even then, resistance persisted. The local police hesitated to provide an Occurrence Book (OB) number, raising concerns about interference. Some members of the victim’s family showed reluctance, possibly due to intimidation or coercion. Yet, the unyielding determination of activists kept the pressure on.

On February 13th, the persistence paid off. The Soy Sub-County OCPD confirmed the teacher’s arrest and transfer to Eldoret Central Police Station. That same day, he was presented in court for a mention—marking a critical step toward justice.

This case is a testament to the power of collective action. It is a stark reminder that no one is above the law. Thanks to the swift intervention of COC members, duty-bearers, and committed citizens, an abuser was held accountable.

But the fight is far from over. COC members continue to monitor the legal proceedings, ensuring the child and his family receive the support, counseling, and protection they need. The battle against impunity demands relentless vigilance.

Justice must not only be done—it must be seen to be done. This is our call to action. We will not look away. We will not relent.

• Data Sharing & Collaboration – Building a unified approach to regional data exchange.
• Data Governance for Sustainable Development – Leveraging data to drive equitable growth.
• Data Governance for Regional Integration – Harmonizing policies for seamless cross-border cooperation.
• Data Governance for Innovation – Unlocking opportunities in emerging technologies.
• Data Governance for the Future of Work – Preparing East Africa for a data-driven workforce.

This conference was more than just a conversation—it was a commitment. A commitment to strengthening policies, fostering innovation, and ensuring that data governance in East Africa is ethical, inclusive, and future-ready.

As the region navigates the rapidly evolving digital landscape, the insights and partnerships forged at this gathering will shape a data-driven future that works for everyone.

The time for action is now. East Africa’s data future depends on it.

Mr. Nzioka’s passing leaves a profound void in the education and human rights community. However, his legacy—marked by advocacy, leadership, and an unshakable commitment to justice—will continue to inspire us all.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and the entire KEPSHA community. May his soul rest in eternal peace.