Besigye, Lutale skip treason trial citing unresolved court issues

The highly anticipated treason trial involving veteran opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye and his aide Obeid Lutale was unexpectedly halted at the High Court in Kampala. The accused failed to appear in court on Thursday, leading to the adjournment of the prosecution’s case.

Only the third co-accused, Capt. Denis Oola, was brought before Justice Emmanuel Baguma. This prompted immediate objections from the defense team, led by Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua and Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago. They argued that proceeding without Besigye and Lutale would violate their constitutional right to a fair hearing.

Assistant Superintendent of Prisons Emmanuel Hiire informed the court that the two accused had declined to attend, citing “pending issues between the lawyers and court.” This statement followed earlier complaints by the defense regarding alleged frustrations in trial preparations by prison authorities. These included denial of access to electronic devices necessary for reviewing evidence with their clients and claims that the one-week period granted to study the voluminous prosecution evidence was insufficient.

Capt. Oola also raised concerns about restrictions on his interaction with his co-accused and lawyers, stating that prison authorities were making communication difficult despite their joint charge.

Given the absence of Dr. Besigye and Hajj Lutale, Justice Baguma issued a production warrant for the accused and adjourned the hearing to June 30, ordering prison authorities to ensure their presence on that date. The prosecution team had indicated they were ready to proceed with their case, with two witnesses lined up to testify.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/besigye-lutale-boycott-treason-trial-over-unresolved-issues-with-court-5492482