Besigye Collapses in Court Amidst Treason Trial Protests

High drama unfolded at the Kampala High Court today as opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye collapsed in the dock during his ongoing treason trial. The collapse followed more than ten minutes of vocal protest by Besigye, who was shouting in objection to the court’s decision to continue proceedings.

The opposition figure’s outburst began shortly after the state prosecutor initiated cross-examination of the first prosecution witness. Despite Besigye’s persistent disruptions, the court pressed on, leading to his eventual collapse.

Immediately following the incident, court proceedings were adjourned. Besigye’s personal doctors, Dr. Lulume Bayigga and Dr. Nicholas Kamara, are reportedly in a standoff with prison officials, attempting to gain access to examine their patient.

The day’s events were preceded by a disagreement over 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. While one co-accused, Captain Denis Oola, agreed to work with the appointed counsel, it was with the condition that his privately retained lawyers would also be involved.

Besigye argued that the state-appointed lawyers lacked the necessary experience for a case of such complexity. He also requested the court to defer the trial until a separate challenge to the legality of state-appointed representation was resolved.

Besigye, Lutale, and Captain Oola face charges of treason, accused of conspiring to overthrow the government between 2023 and November 2024. They have pleaded not guilty. The trial is being conducted under strict security measures, including limitations on access and media coverage.

Source: Nile Post