Nicholas Opiyo Steps Down from Chapter Four Uganda After a Decade of Advocacy
Nicholas Opiyo, the founding Executive Director of Chapter Four Uganda, has recently resigned from his position after leading the organization for over a decade.
Kampala, Uganda — After a remarkable tenure spanning over a decade, Nicholas Opiyo has announced his resignation from his role as the Executive Director of Chapter Four Uganda, a leading civil rights organization dedicated to the defense of civil liberties in the country.
Opiyo, who has been at the helm since founding the organization in 2013, has been a pivotal figure in Uganda's human rights landscape. His departure marks the end of an era for Chapter Four Uganda, which under his leadership, became renowned for its legal aid services, advocacy for human rights, and challenging regressive laws, including the contentious Anti-Homosexuality Act.
The announcement was made official through a statement released by Chapter Four Uganda, detailing a four-year transition process that led to this significant leadership change. "After a four-year deliberative and extensive transition process planning, Nicholas Opiyo, our founding and long-serving Executive Director, has passed the baton to the next generation of leaders at the organization," the statement read.
The Board has appointed Mr. Anthony Masake, a long-serving staffer, as the new Executive Director, said Mr. Angelo Izama, Board Secretary of Chapter Four. Mr. Masake steps into the role with a deep understanding of the organization's mission and operations, promising to uphold the standards set by Opiyo.
Opiyo himself expressed his gratitude and reflections on his journey with Chapter Four in a personal statement. "Since founding this organization, I have done my utmost to defend the fundamental human rights of all without discrimination. I have given it my very best, my most productive and energetic years," he shared, emphasizing his commitment to the cause and his belief in the new leadership's potential to carry forward the organization's mission. Additionally, Opiyo will stay on for a few months in an advisory capacity to shepherd the new team through the transition period.
Under Opiyo's stewardship, Chapter Four Uganda not only grew in influence but also in its capacity to advocate for justice, with a special focus on legal support for marginalized communities. His leadership saw the organization manage a budget of over $1 million, oversee a team of 15 staff attorneys, and collaborate with a network of 250 lawyers dedicated to human rights litigation and advocacy.
Opiyo's tenure was not without challenges; he faced personal risks, including arrests, and was at the forefront of numerous high-profile cases that drew international attention. His efforts were recognized globally, earning him accolades like the German Africa Prize in 2017, the Voices for Justice Award from Human Rights Watch in 2015, and the European Union Parliament Sakharov Fellows Prize in 2016.
The announcement of his resignation has stirred discussions within Uganda's civil society about the future direction of human rights advocacy in the country. While many celebrate his contributions, there's an underlying concern about filling the void left by such a prominent figure. However, the transition plan outlined by Chapter Four, with the appointment of Anthony Masake and Opiyo's advisory role, suggests a strategic approach to leadership change, promising continuity in its mission and operations.
As Opiyo steps down, he leaves behind a legacy of resilience, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to justice. The organization, now under new management with Anthony Masake at the helm, is poised to navigate the complexities of Uganda's political and social landscape, continuing to champion human rights in Opiyo's footsteps.
