The People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) has announced a fresh strategy to secure the release of its top leaders, Dr Kizza Besigye and Hajj Obeid Lutale, following a recent judicial setback.
On Friday, August 8, 2025, the Criminal Division of the High Court in Kampala ruled that the two opposition figures had not yet served the mandatory 180 days in detention required under Ugandan law to qualify for bail.
This came after a similar application was rejected by the Nakawa Magistrates Court in May.
In response, the PFF has expressed loss of confidence in the judiciary and said it will mobilize supporters nationwide to protest what it describes as “unfair judicial decisions.”
“The PFF national executive committee has taken over this matter to discuss the intervention mechanism. Our intention is mobilizing supporters and members countrywide to expose gaps in the judiciary,” said Dr. Lulume Bayigga, PFF deputy national chairman for Buganda.
Dr. Bayigga further alleged that political interference is undermining the judiciary.
“It has been evidenced that some judicial officers are working as cadres. PFF is set to ignite fire to put the court under scrutiny,” he stated.
The PFF’s position has garnered support from the Uganda Law Society (ULS), which has condemned the judiciary’s handling of Besigye’s case.
“When the judiciary that is meant to protect the rights of citizens fails, then you expect the people to take such a direction. As ULS, we join them to demand the judiciary to remain impartial,” said Asiimwe Anthony, ULS vice president.
The unfolding developments signal rising tensions between opposition forces and the judicial system as Besigye and Lutale remain in detention.
