High Court Justice Michael Elubu has set April 4 as the date for ruling on the bail application of Eron Kiiza, a lawyer serving a 9-month prison sentence for contempt of the General Court Martial.
Kiiza who has appeared today in a fully packed court told the presiding judge that he has spent 76 days in Kitalya prison in an illegal detention since his arrest on January 7 thus seeking to temporarily be released pending the hearing of his Appeal in army court.
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Kiiza’s troubles began when he represented Dr. Kizza Besigye and his aide Hajji Obeid Lutale, who were facing treachery charges.
The General Court Martial chairman, Brig. Gen Freeman Mugabe, found Kiiza’s conduct unbecoming and ordered his arrest and sentencing.
Kiiza has appealed the punishment and sought release, citing a Supreme Court decision that barred the trial of civilians in military courts.
His grounds for bail include having three substantial sureties: his wife Syliva Tumwebaze, cousin Prof. Busingye Kabumba, and friend Primah Kwagla.
Kiiza’s lawyer, Nicholas Opio, argues that Kiiza has a right to apply for bail pending appeal and has a high chance of success.
However, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) opposes Kiiza’s bail application, claiming he filed it in the wrong court and that his sureties are not substantial.
The DPP also argues that Kiiza, as an advocate, should have protected court dignity.
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