Retired Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused, Obeid Lutaale Kamulegeya, were further remanded to Luzira Prison until January 7, 2025, as they face charges of unlawful possession of ammunition and firearms.
The defense team, led by Erias Lukwago and Eron Kiiza, raised several concerns during the hearing, including the alleged abduction of their colleague, Retired Major Ronald Iduli, inadequate seating arrangements for lawyers, and the denial of a practicing certificate to Martha Karua, who was initially appointed as lead counsel.
Lukwago expressed frustration over the lack of cooperation from the court and the alleged intimidation tactics used against the defense team. He also questioned the independence of the Court Martial and the fairness of the proceedings.
Kiiza echoed these concerns, highlighting the challenges faced by the defense team and the impact on their ability to provide adequate legal representation.
He also emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of the accused and their legal team.
The defense team’s efforts to introduce foreign legal experts, including Margaret Nangacovie from Angola and Gicheru Kimei from Kenya, were met with resistance from the court.
The denial of Martha Karua’s practicing certificate further hindered the defense’s ability to mount a strong legal challenge.
The continued remand of Besigye and Kamulegeya has raised concerns about the politicization of the legal process and the erosion of the rule of law in Uganda.
The defense team has vowed to continue fighting for justice and to expose the alleged injustices being perpetrated against their clients.
Besigye has a history of facing political persecution, having been arrested and charged multiple times by the Ugandan government.
His ongoing legal battles have drawn international attention and sparked widespread condemnation of the government’s tactics
