The hearing for opposition leader Kizza Besigye and his associate Obeid Lutale at the General Court Martial in Makindye turned into a chaotic standoff, leading to an adjournment until January 7, 2025.
Besigye, who refuses to apply for bail in what he calls a “Kangaroo court,” is challenging their trial, arguing that civilians should not be tried in a military court.
The session was filled with dramatic exchanges between the defense lawyers, the court’s Judge Advocate Brigadier-General Richard Tukacungurwa, and the prosecution, exposing significant legal and procedural tensions.
Supporters of Dr. Besigye filled the courtroom, chanting “We will never surrender” as they awaited the ruling on their objections. Meanwhile, the defense team, led by Eron Kiiza and Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, struggled with logistical issues, including a lack of seating, which fueled the tensions.
The situation escalated when Kiiza clashed with the Judge Advocate, accusing him of overstepping his role. Kiiza’s comments provoked the Judge Advocate, who warned of potential contempt charges.
Adding to the turmoil, Kiiza claimed that a member of the defense team had been abducted by military personnel, apparently to intimidate the defense.
The court also demanded practicing certificates for all defense lawyers, further stalling the proceedings. Lukwago stressed that the accused have the right to choose their legal representation, a right that cannot be denied.
The prosecution accused the defense of unprofessional conduct, even alleging that Kiiza had performed public push-ups and entered the court unshowered—accusations Kiiza dismissed.
Instead, he urged military leadership to release the abducted colleague. As the proceedings drew to a close, defense lawyer Nalukoola requested an adjournment but rejected the January 7 date as insufficient.
Despite the defense’s request for a one-week delay, Brigadier-General Freeman Mugabe ruled for a January 7 return.
The adjournment leaves Besigye and Lutale’s fate uncertain, and with unresolved issues surrounding the trial’s legitimacy and the conduct of the court, their supporters are determined to continue fighting for justice.