The General Court Martial in Makindye has sentenced Dr. Kizza Besigye’s lawyer, Eron Kiiza, to nine months in prison for contempt of court.
In a swift ruling, Court Martial Chairman Brigadier Robert Freeman Mugabe found Kiiza guilty of contempt without allowing him a chance to defend himself or present mitigating factors. The court heard that Kiiza, representing Besigye and Obeid Lutaale Kamulegeya in a case involving illegal possession of ammunition, repeatedly banged on metal surfaces and shouted in court despite warnings.
Following the ruling, lawyers Erias Lukwago and Fredrick Mpanga appealed, arguing that even those found guilty of contempt have the right to a fair hearing. They requested a formal ruling to enable them to appeal the decision. However, the Court Martial declared itself “functus officio” – meaning it had no power to reverse its decision.
Kiiza, who appeared composed in a blue suit, was immediately escorted to the holding cells to await transfer to Kitalya Government Prison to serve his sentence.
This incident highlights a recurring pattern of difficulties faced by lawyers representing clients before the General Court Martial.
- In 2004, lawyers Erias Lukwago and Caleb Alaka were convicted of contempt by the late Lt. Gen. Elly Tumwine in the treason case against Dr. Kizza Besigye. They were fined a nominal amount.
- In 2018, City lawyer Jimmy Muyanja was indefinitely suspended by then-Court Martial Chairperson Lt. Gen. Andrew Gutti for misconduct during a case involving Boda Boda 2010.
- Muhydin Kakooza, a supporter of the National Unity Platform (NUP), was also sentenced to nine months in prison for contempt under Gen. Gutti’s leadership without being allowed to defend himself.
These incidents raise serious concerns about the fairness and impartiality of the General Court Martial and its treatment of legal professionals.
