Court Dismisses Besigye's Bid for Constitutional Reference, Paving Way for Treason Trial

A significant legal hurdle has been cleared in the treason case against veteran opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused. The High Court, in a ruling delivered via email, dismissed an application seeking a constitutional reference, which aimed to challenge the adequacy of time and facilities provided for the defense to prepare.

Justice Emmanuel Baguma stated that the questions raised by Dr. Besigye’s legal team did not meet the threshold for interpretation by the Constitutional Court. Specifically, the defense argued that the seven days between the prosecution’s disclosure of evidence and the preliminary hearing were insufficient for a complex treason charge. They also questioned the accessibility of detained clients during weekends and public holidays and the scheduling of trial dates before the completion of preliminary proceedings.

However, Justice Baguma found that one week was adequate for preparing for a preliminary hearing, noting that the defense had received earlier disclosures dating back to January. He added that the court had already taken measures to ensure fair trial rights, including directing prison authorities to facilitate lawyer-client meetings on weekends and public holidays. The judge cautioned against elevating routine case management decisions into constitutional disputes.

With the application dismissed, the case is set to move forward. The parties are scheduled to return for a preliminary hearing on June 8, with the prosecution expected to begin presenting its case on June 11. Dr. Besigye, along with Hajji Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya and UPDF officer Denis Oola, are accused of participating in alleged plots to overthrow the government between 2023 and 2024.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)