Activists launch fundraiser for Spire Ssentongo after Shs30m court order

What the report says

Activists and human rights defenders in Uganda have launched a fundraising campaign to help academic, columnist and cartoonist Dr Jimmy Spire Ssentongo meet a court-ordered payment of Shs30 million linked to a contempt ruling, according to Nile Post. The effort is set to begin on Monday, with supporters already being encouraged to contribute through a mobile money line registered in the name of activist Agather Atuhaire.

The reported order came from the High Court Civil Division Registrar Simon Kintu Zirintusa on June 18, 2026, in a case connected to Ssentongo’s dispute with Kampala International University (KIU). The court imposed a Shs10 million fine for contempt, Shs20 million in punitive or exemplary damages to KIU, and costs of the application. It also said he could face three months in civil prison if he did not pay the fine within 14 days.

Nile Post reported that the matter grew out of an earlier December 17, 2025 order that restrained Ssentongo from continuing to publish material KIU said was damaging to its reputation. KIU had sought much larger penalties, but the court awarded less than it requested. The activists backing the fundraiser say the case raises wider concerns about freedom of expression and the ability to criticize powerful institutions, while KIU has treated the posts as an issue of reputation and compliance with court orders.

Ssentongo, who is also known for commentary on governance and corruption, has said his work reflects public-interest concerns raised by students, former staff and other members of the public.