news 30 July 2026 Nile Post
Besigye's Treason Trial Halts as Court Demands Medical Update After Collapse
Dr. Kizza Besigye's treason trial has been adjourned after he failed to appear in court for the second consecutive day following a collapse during previous proceedings. The High Court has now ordered the Uganda Prisons Service to submit a medical report on his condition. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/360256/besigye-treason-trial-stalls-as-court-orders-medical-report-after-no-show
The High Court in Kampala has halted the treason trial of opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, demanding a medical report from the Uganda Prisons Service after his absence from court.
Besigye failed to appear for the second day of his trial on Thursday, prompting Justice Emmanuel Baguma to adjourn proceedings. The trial had resumed after a significant delay, with the judge taking the bench around 1 PM.
Court proceedings were immediately disrupted when it was revealed that Besigye, one of the three defendants, was unable to attend. “I have received a letter from Luzira stating that the accused can’t make it,” Justice Baguma informed the court, referencing the prison facility where Besigye is held.
While Besigye’s co-accused, Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola, were present, the prosecution expressed readiness to proceed, noting their first witness was available. However, court-appointed defense counsel Sylvia Namawejje objected, arguing that the trial could not continue without all accused individuals present to participate.
Justice Baguma concurred with the defense, rejecting the prosecution’s request. He specifically directed the Uganda Prisons Service to provide a comprehensive medical report detailing Dr. Besigye’s health status, especially in light of his collapse in the dock during Wednesday’s hearing.
The prosecution’s initial witness, Andy Wilson Orlando, a British-American national, was consequently stood down without giving testimony. The case has been adjourned to August 4, 2026, when the court expects to receive the medical report and decide on the trial’s continuation.