According to emails from the Washington-based law firm Covington & Burling LLP, Kisaakye has been living in fear due to the threats she has received. “Justice Kisaakye continued to live in fear for her life based on reports of threats she continued to receive,” one document states. The situation escalated in July 2023 when Kisaakye was informed by her lawyer about a specific threat from an individual claiming to be a member of a Ugandan security agency.
Kisaakye’s challenges began in 2021 when she dissented against eight justices regarding the presidential election petition filed by former candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine. After her dissenting judgment was allegedly confiscated, Kisaakye faced two and a half years of persecution within the judiciary, including removal from her administrative position and denial of work opportunities.
Despite filing multiple petitions seeking justice and protection for her rights, Kisaakye’s situation remained precarious. The recent developments have raised significant concerns about judicial independence and the safety of judges in Uganda. As Kisaakye seeks refuge abroad, calls for international attention and support for her plight are growing.