Politics 3 June 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Besigye Trial: State Drops Witness Protection Plea, Accusers to Testify Openly
Prosecutors in the treason-related trial of opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye have withdrawn a controversial request for witness protection, opting instead for full disclosure to the defence. This move follows significant opposition from defence lawyers who argued the request infringed upon the accused's right to a fair trial. Source: https://observer.ug/news/besigye-accusers-to-testify-in-open-court
In a notable development for the treason trial involving Ugandan opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, prosecutors have abandoned their bid to shield key witnesses.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) had initially sought special protective measures, citing security concerns for witnesses. However, after weeks of legal wrangling and strong objections from the defense team, the state has reversed its position.
Chief State Attorney Richard Birivumbuka informed the court that the ODPP will now “make full disclosure to the defence team while relying on alternative witness protection measures.” This concession came after defence lawyers, including prominent Kenyan advocate Martha Karua, argued vehemently that the prosecution’s request violated the accused’s fundamental right to a fair hearing and had caused undue delays in the case.
Karua had sharply criticized the prolonged adjournments, citing personal and financial costs incurred from traveling to Uganda. While acknowledging the delays, Justice Henry Peter Adonyo Baguma declined to award immediate costs but directed the prosecution to proceed with preparations for the substantive hearing.
The trial, which involves allegations of a conspiracy to overthrow the Ugandan government between 2023 and 2024, remains politically sensitive. The resolution of the witness protection dispute paves the way for the case to move forward, with accusers now expected to testify under open court conditions.
This withdrawal marks a significant moment in the trial, underscoring the importance of due process and the defence’s right to confront their accusers. The broader case, however, continues to be closely watched.
This story was first reported by The Observer (Uganda).