KAMPALA – Proceedings in the bail application of opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye and co-accused Hajj Obeid Lutale stalled on Friday at the High Court in Kampala after their entire defence team boycotted the session, citing alleged threats and violations of legal representation rights.
The hearing, presided over by Justice Emmanuel Baguma, was expected to consider the bail application at 2:00pm but was disrupted when lawyers drawn from more than 10 law firms failed to appear in court.
Court observers said the absence of senior defence counsel, including Senior Counsel Martha Karua and Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, left the accused without legal representation, prompting a standoff over whether proceedings should continue.
Through activist Ingrid Turinawe, who was present in court, Besigye insisted that he would not proceed without his preferred legal team.
“@kizzabesigye1 and co-accused have insisted on their right of representation by lawyers of their choice. Without Martha Karua, Erias Lukwago and without safety of the whole team of lawyers, they will not return to court,” Turinawe posted.
Defence raises objections over fair trial rights
In his submission to court, Dr. Besigye raised concerns over what he described as restrictions on access to case materials and interference with his defence team’s preparation.
He told court that despite a directive from the High Court Registrar allowing lawyers access to their clients in prison for trial preparation, the defence had faced “enormous frustration,” including alleged denial of entry into Luzira Prison with electronic devices required to review audio and video evidence.
Besigye further argued that the defence had been unable to properly prepare due to delays in accessing disclosures and said the bail hearing could not proceed until the issue of legal representation was resolved.
He also raised concern over co-accused Capt. Denis Oola, stating that his bail application had been pending since last year without being heard.
Court defers ruling on human rights application
Following submissions, Justice Baguma set July 8, 2026 for ruling on matters arising from the human rights enforcement application linked to the case.
Off the record, the judge addressed allegations circulating in public commentary that he had avoided court proceedings, stating that he had on several occasions engaged with accused persons and prison authorities to resolve procedural concerns.
He also referenced a past incident involving the late Hajji Obeid Lutale’s family member, noting that he had previously exercised restraint despite what he described as courtroom misconduct.
Justice Baguma urged parties to seek constructive engagement rather than confrontation when addressing grievances related to trial procedures.
No bail ruling yet as standoff continues
As of late evening, there was no immediate ruling on the bail application. The session instead focused on preliminary objections, particularly issues surrounding legal representation and access to evidence.
Besigye and Lutale remain on remand at Luzira Prison, pending further court directions.
Reports indicate that the accused have repeatedly insisted that they will only be represented by their preferred legal team, including Martha Karua and Erias Lukwago, arguing that any alternative representation would compromise their constitutional right to a fair trial.
Prosecutors, however, maintained that proceedings should continue, noting that the State was not aware of claims that senior defence counsel had been prevented from participating due to external interference.
Political and legal tension escalates
The case has drawn heightened political attention, with commentators on social media sharply divided over the developments. Some legal observers argue that the dispute reflects deeper concerns over fair trial standards, while others insist the court should proceed despite defence absences.
The matter has now been adjourned to July 8, 2026, when the High Court is expected to rule on key preliminary issues before any determination on bail is made.
