Judiciary Rolls Out Stricter Media Access Rules for Besigye Trial

The Judiciary of Uganda has announced a series of tightened regulations ahead of the resumption of the high-profile trial involving Colonel Dr. Kizza Besigye, Hajji Obeid Lutale, and Captain Denis Oola in the High Court’s Criminal Division. These new directives are designed to bolster security during the proceedings, which are expected to attract significant public and media attention.

Under the revised plan, access to the courtroom will be strictly controlled. Only essential court personnel, the accused, their legal teams, accredited journalists, and a limited number of members of the public, based on available seating, will be permitted entry. All media personnel seeking to cover the trial must undergo a prior accreditation process through the Judiciary’s Public Relations Office.

Furthermore, all media equipment, including cameras and recording devices, will be subject to mandatory security screening. The court retains the right to limit the number of reporters present, depending on courtroom capacity. Any requests for live broadcasts of the proceedings must be submitted for approval. Photography and videography within the courtroom are restricted, and specific authorization is required to capture images of the judge or witnesses.

The Judiciary has also prohibited the use of personal electronic devices, such as mobile phones and tablets, inside the courtroom during trial sessions. These measures are intended to strike a balance between transparency and the need to maintain order, security, and the integrity of the trial process.

This development comes after the Uganda Law Society (ULS) had advocated for live streaming of the proceedings, citing the importance of transparency and public confidence in the justice system. The ULS had previously raised concerns about denial of access for journalists and alleged judicial misconduct in the handling of the case. They argued that live broadcasting would uphold constitutional principles and help combat speculation surrounding the trial.

https://observer.ug/news/judiciary-tightens-media-access-rules-as-besigye-trial-resumes