Lawyers representing detained opposition politician Kizza Besigye and his co-accused, Hajj Obeid Lutale, have petitioned the High Court seeking expanded access to Luzira Prison and enhanced facilities to prepare their defence ahead of a scheduled hearing in a treason case.
In a letter addressed to the Assistant Registrar of the High Court Criminal Division, the defence team led by Lukwago & Co. Advocates said trial judge Justice Emmanuel Baguma had on June 1 directed court administrators to write to prison authorities to facilitate counsel access to the accused persons on weekends and public holidays.
The lawyers, however, contend that they have not received any communication confirming implementation of the directive.
They cited an incident on June 4 in which one of the defence lawyers, Bayern Turinawe, was reportedly denied entry into Luzira Prison with a laptop and flash drives, raising concerns about the legal team's ability to adequately prepare for the hearing scheduled for June 11.
According to the defence team, the complexity and gravity of the case require extensive consultations with the accused persons. They have requested a private interview room capable of accommodating between 15 and 20 lawyers and support staff.
The lawyers are also seeking unrestricted access to the prison from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., permission to bring in electronic devices including laptops, mobile phones, projectors and internet equipment, as well as access for independent information technology and forensic experts.
In addition, they want permission to carry case files, legal materials, flash drives, notebooks and refreshments into the facility during consultation sessions.
According to the letter, the requested arrangements are necessary to safeguard advocate-client privilege and ensure effective preparation of the defence case.
The lawyers further noted that additional requirements may arise as preparations for the trial progress.
Copies of the letter were also sent to the trial judge and prison authorities as the defence seeks urgent intervention ahead of the commencement of the hearing.
The application comes as attention remains focused on the upcoming proceedings, with the defence maintaining that adequate access to their clients is essential for the preparation of their case before court.