Politics 11 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Besigye Supporters Anxious as Treason Trial Faces Delays
Supporters of Dr. Kizza Besigye expressed growing impatience as the commencement of his substantive treason trial at the High Court in Kampala was significantly delayed on Thursday. The hearing, expected at 11 am, had not begun by midday, leading to anxiety among the large crowd gathered. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/besigye-supporters-grow-restless-as-treason-trial-delays-5492332
Supporters of jailed opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye became increasingly restless on Thursday morning as his anticipated treason trial failed to begin as scheduled at the High Court in Kampala. The court session, slated to start at 11 am, had not convened by midday, causing palpable anxiety among the numerous supporters who had filled the courtroom.
Led by activist Ingrid Turinawe, many of whom are affiliated with the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), the supporters broke into freedom songs while awaiting proceedings. They repeatedly sang “Twamuganye Pilato,” which roughly translates to “We have rejected Pilate,” a slogan they directed at the trial process and the presiding judge, Emmanuel Baguma.
The courtroom remained lively despite the delay, with supporters singing and chanting as Counter-Terrorism Police officers maintained order. Ms. Turinawe’s calls for “time, time” drew cheers from fellow supporters.
By the time of reporting, Dr. Besigye and his co-accused, Hajj Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola, had not been produced in court by prison authorities. Security was notably tight around the High Court, with opposition figures also present.
Court officials had initially restricted access to the courtroom due to the high number of attendees, quickly filling it to capacity and leaving many supporters and other court users stranded outside. The trial, which has garnered considerable public and political attention, is expected to commence once the accused are presented and the judge takes the bench.