ULS Accuses Judge Singiza of Violating Besigye’s Rights
The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has accused High Court Judge Dr. Douglas Karekona Singiza of deliberately frustrating efforts to secure the release of opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, despite a Supreme Court decision that nullified the trial of civilians in military courts.
In a statement, ULS Vice President Anthony Asiimwe criticised Judge Singiza for denying Besigye an expeditious habeas corpus hearing, arguing that this violates constitutional provisions that prioritize such applications.
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ULS further condemned Singiza’s actions, linking them to a pattern of alleged human rights violations, including previous cases involving torture and unlawful detention.
"The Supreme Court’s ruling in Attorney General v. Hon. Michael Kabaziguruka (Constitutional Appeal 2 of 2021) nullified the provisions under which Dr. Besigye was charged,"he said.
"There is no trial to transfer to civilian courts, and the Director of Public Prosecutions has no grounds to take over the case. Dr. Besigye is therefore entitled to immediate and unconditional release," Asiimwe stated.
The legal body also criticized Singiza for his handling of a separate habeas corpus petition involving lawyer Eron Kiiza, arguing that his actions undermine the judiciary’s commitment to justice and human rights.
As a result, ULS has called on the Judiciary to investigate Singiza’s conduct and take disciplinary action against him.
The organization also urged the international community to hold Uganda accountable for ongoing human rights violations, warning that continued judicial impunity could erode trust in the country’s legal system.
Besigye, who has been on remand for nearly three months despite a Supreme Court ruling ordering his release, appeared visibly weak and struggled to breathe during his latest court appearance, sparking emotional reactions from his supporters.
Arrested on November 16, 2024, and charged with treason before a military court, Besigye was ordered released by the Supreme Court last month.
However, he remains detained at Luzira Prison, raising concerns over the government’s defiance of the court’s decision.
While Uganda Prisons insists that Besigye is in good health and receiving proper care, his supporters strongly disagree, citing his frail condition in court.
On Sunday, Besigye was taken under tight security to a medical facility at Bugolobi Village Mall for urgent treatment.
According to Buhweju County MP Francis Mwijukye, Besigye arrived at the clinic located on the third floor of the mall in a wheelchair.
Security forces have since been heavily deployed around the facility, restricting access and movement.
Staff at The Clinic, where Besigye is reportedly receiving treatment, declined to comment on his presence, citing medical confidentiality. He was however taken back to the prison after seeking the medical attention at the facility.
