Lawyers representing opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye have strongly criticised the conditions under which their clients are being detained, calling them a violation of their constitutional rights and a breach of the principle of "innocent until proven guilty."
In a tense court session on Wednesday at the Nakawa Magistrate's Court, defence lawyers highlighted that Dr Besigye and his co-accused, Hajj Obeid Lutale, have been subjected to solitary confinement, with no opportunity to interact freely with other inmates.
"They are not allowed to mingle freely with fellow inmates, even in Luzira. This is not just confinement—it’s isolation," said lawyer Erias Lukwago, arguing that such restrictions infringe upon the accused's fundamental rights to associate.
The defence also raised concerns about the heightened security measures surrounding their clients, which they believe suggest a presumption of guilt before the trial.
"You can see the security around the dock. Over ten menacing-looking prison officers make it look like our clients are already guilty. And outside the court, the cars bringing them here have a lead car with a very loud siren. What happened to innocent until proven guilty?" lawyer Frederick Mpanga questioned.
The legal team further noted that the accused have been denied access to their families, even in the courtroom.
Mpanga shared that one of the accused had attempted to speak with their doctor, who was present in court, but the attempt was unsuccessful.
"We pray, Your Worship, that they at least have time to talk to their people," the lawyers pleaded, underscoring the importance of maintaining pretrial liberties.
The lawyers also called for longer visitation times with family and friends, as the accused are signed out of prison only until about 3pm.
Dr Besigye and Lutale have been in detention since November 2024, facing treason charges linked to alleged plans to overthrow the government.
The case continues to draw attention, with concerns over the treatment of the accused and the fairness of their pretrial conditions.