KAMPALA, UGANDA – The High Court has agreed to hear Dr. Kizza Besigye’s human rights enforcement application on 30 June 2026, following a protest by the defence team and the People’s Front for Freedom.
The decision came after Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale boycotted the scheduled commencement of their treason trial on 11 June. Justice Emmanuel Baguma subsequently issued production warrants for both men.
On 10 June, the defence argued that the human rights application should be heard and determined first under the Human Rights Enforcement Act, Cap 12. The application names Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba among the respondents and alleges violations including abduction from Kenya in November 2024, incommunicado detention, torture, denial of access to lawyers and family, and rushed proceedings.
The Uganda Law Society said the development was a result of “assertive advocacy” by the legal team and PFF leadership. ULS President Isaac K. Ssemakadde, SC, said the firm stance taken at Katonga shows that “unapologetic advocacy delivers results and keeps the flame of constitutionalism alive.”
ULS saluted the legal team, led by Senior Counsel Martha Karua and Erias Lukwago, for their work amid claims of denied access to clients in Luzira Prison, delayed disclosures, and alleged bias.
Besigye and Lutale face capital treason charges related to alleged activities between 2023 and 2024. The case was transferred from a military court following the Supreme Court’s ruling against trying civilians in military tribunals.
ULS said it stands ready to support efforts to restore judicial integrity under Section 3 of its enabling law and called on citizens to remain vigilant in demanding a fair trial and the release of political prisoners.
Interesting to see the timeline for Besigye’s rights application. Any insight on what might happen next?