Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused, Obed Kamulegeya Lutale, will remain in detention at Luzira Prison after being denied bail by the General Court Martial in Kampala. Their next court appearance is scheduled for January 7, 2025.
During a hearing on December 10, 2024, the defence team sought to have Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua lead the case, but this request was turned down by Brigadier Freeman Mugabi, who heads the court martial. He instructed the defence to prepare adequately before their next court session.
Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who is part of the legal team, noted that the process to secure a temporary permit for Karua to represent the accused is still underway. He assured supporters that efforts to strengthen the defence team were ongoing.
“We are grateful for the support from international legal experts. Securing Karua’s participation is a priority, and we are determined to ensure it happens,” Lukwago stated.
Joel Ssenyonyi, Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, expressed solidarity with the detained leaders, describing their situation as an example of injustice.
“The opposition stands united against such human rights violations. What has happened to Dr. Besigye and others is unacceptable, and we must continue to condemn these actions,” Ssenyonyi declared.
On December 9, leaders from various opposition parties issued a joint statement at Parliament, decrying the use of military courts to try civilians. They called for the immediate transfer of Besigye and Lutale’s case to a civilian court, citing multiple constitutional rulings that prohibit such practices.
“The continued trial of civilians in military courts is unconstitutional and must stop. We demand the dismissal of charges against Dr. Besigye and Mr. Lutale or their transfer to civilian judicial systems,” read part of the opposition’s statement.
The charges stem from their arrest in Kenya on November 16, 2024, at Riverside Hotel, where they were allegedly found in possession of firearms and ammunition. The case has sparked widespread condemnation from human rights groups and opposition figures, who view it as politically motivated.
As the case unfolds, Besigye and Lutale will remain incarcerated, spending the holiday season in Luzira Prison while their supporters continue to call for justice and due process.
