The military court has extended the remand of veteran opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused, Hajj Obeid Lutale, until January 2025.
The decision was made after the defence lawyers informed the General Court Martial in Makindye that their team was not fully constituted, as instructed by their clients.
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The prosecution alleges that Dr. Besigye and Mr. Lutale committed offences including unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, as well as threatening Uganda’s security.
The defence team has argued that the court lacks jurisdiction to try the two men, who are civilians.
Dr. Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate, has been a vocal critic of President Yoweri Museveni’s government. His detention has sparked widespread condemnation from opposition supporters and human rights groups.
The extension of Dr. Besigye’s and Mr. Lutale’s remand has raised concerns about the length of time they will spend in prison before their trial is concluded.
The Ugandan government has denied allegations of political interference in the judiciary, saying that the courts are independent and impartial.
The trial of Dr. Besigye and Mr. Lutale is expected to continue in January 2025
