The High Court in Uganda has adjourned Dr. Kizza Besigye’s treason trial until July 29, ordering the accused to select legal representation from a list of state-briefed lawyers.
This comes after Besigye’s defense team cited security concerns and a lack of time to vet potential state-appointed counsel.
The treason trial of prominent opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused, Hajj Obeid Lutale, has been postponed by the High Court to July 29. The adjournment was granted after one of the state-appointed lawyers requested two weeks to submit his curriculum vitae (CV) for the accused to assess suitability.
The court, presided over by Justice Emmanuel Baguma, directed Besigye and Lutale to choose from a list of 786 advocates available under the state brief scheme, a government-funded legal aid program for those facing serious criminal charges.
Prosecution, led by Thomas Jatiko and Richard Birivumbuka, confirmed it had complied with a court order to disclose all evidence, including witness statements, documentary, and electronic exhibits. Besigye and Lutale acknowledged receipt of the materials.
However, Besigye expressed dissatisfaction with the provided list, noting it lacked sufficient detail for him to effectively evaluate the lawyers’ experience in handling complex, multi-jurisdictional criminal cases, particularly those involving technical electronic evidence.
Besigye reiterated his preference for his original legal team, led by Martha Karua and Erias Lukwago, provided their security concerns are addressed. He also questioned the necessity of state-funded lawyers, stating he and Lutale are capable of hiring their own representation.
Justice Baguma deemed the two-week adjournment reasonable, particularly after the prosecution’s disclosure was completed. He ordered prison authorities to facilitate meetings between Besigye, Lutale, and potential lawyers, and directed the three initially proposed advocates to submit their CVs.
The treason charges allege that Besigye and his co-accused plotted to overthrow the government through meetings in Kampala, Nairobi, Geneva, and Athens, and sought funding, weapons, and paramilitary activities. Allegations include plotting assassinations and acquiring illicit materials.
The trial resumes on July 29, with the accused expected to indicate their chosen legal representation from the state brief scheme.
