NGO Bureau Chief Sued for Illegally Suspending Civil Society Groups

Stephen Okello, the Secretary of the National Bureau for Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO Bureau), has been taken to the High Court over the continued suspension of multiple civil society organizations. The legal challenge claims Okello acted arbitrarily and outside his legal mandate when suspending these groups, particularly in the lead-up to the 2026 general elections.

Lawyer Michael Aboneka, who filed the petition, argues that at the time of the suspensions in January 2026, the NGO Bureau was not properly constituted, meaning Okello lacked the authority to order the closures. The petition asserts that these indefinite suspensions were carried out without due process, violating the right to a fair hearing and principles of natural justice. Aboneka further contends that the continued closure amounts to contempt of court, referencing a previous High Court ruling.

The suspensions affected prominent organizations such as Chapter Four Uganda, Alliance for Election Finance Monitoring, and Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda. The government’s rationale at the time cited intelligence reports alleging activities prejudicial to national security. However, the lawsuit challenges the legality and the indefinite nature of these shutdowns, arguing they deny affected organizations a chance to be heard and violate citizens’ rights to freedom of association and participation in governance.

Aboneka’s petition seeks a court declaration that Okello’s actions were illegal and unlawful. It also asks the court to recognize that suspending organizations providing crucial legal aid and human rights services undermines access to justice, especially for vulnerable populations. The lawyer is also requesting a permanent injunction to prevent Okello from taking similar actions without the authorization of a legally constituted NGO Bureau.

As of the report, Okello has not yet filed a defense, and the High Court has yet to schedule a hearing for the case. This legal battle highlights concerns over the operational space for civil society in Uganda.