Besigye Collapses in Court Amidst Protest Over Treason Trial

Political opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye experienced a dramatic collapse within the High Court in Kampala during proceedings for his treason trial. The incident occurred after Besigye vocally protested the continuation of the trial for over ten minutes.

The protest began shortly after state prosecutor Richard Birivumbuka commenced cross-examination of the prosecution’s initial witness, Andy Wilson Orlando. Besigye’s sustained shouting disrupted the court session as the prosecution continued to present its case.

Following Besigye’s collapse, the court was immediately adjourned. His personal doctors, Dr. Lulume Bayigga and Dr. Nicholas Kamara, are currently facing a confrontation with prison officials as they attempt to gain access to examine the opposition leader.

This event follows an earlier dispute regarding legal representation. Besigye and his co-accused, Hajji Obeid Lutale, rejected the lawyers appointed by the High Court to represent them at the state’s expense, citing concerns over their experience for a case of such complexity.

UPDF Captain Denis Oola, also an accused, had a conditional agreement to work with the appointed lawyers alongside his private legal team. Besigye argued that the appointed counsel lacked the proven expertise required for the treason charges he faces and requested the court to wait for a ruling on a separate case challenging the legality of state-appointed representation.

This disagreement has been a significant factor in delaying the high-profile trial. Besigye, Lutale, and Captain Oola are accused of conspiring to overthrow the government by force between 2023 and November 2024, charges they have denied. The trial is subject to strict security measures, including limitations on courtroom access and media coverage.

This information was reported by Nile Post.