Besigye Trial Delays After Security Blocks Lukwago and Karua
The defense team expressed frustration, insisting the trial could not proceed without proper legal representation for the accused.
The General Court Martial in Makindye has adjourned the trial of Dr Kizza Besigye and Obeid Lutale for 20 minutes after several defense lawyers were denied entry by security personnel.
Among those locked out were Senior Counsel Martha Karua, Erias Lukwago, and Eron Kiiza.
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The defense team expressed frustration, insisting the trial could not proceed without proper legal representation for the accused.
Senior Counsel Karua, a prominent figure and former Kenyan Justice Minister, faced additional complications when her handbag was confiscated by soldiers at the gate.
It was returned only after lengthy negotiations with senior officers.
Over 20 lawyers were reportedly affected by the lockout, raising concerns about the fairness of the proceedings.
"We cannot start without lawyers for the accused. Surely, is this a court?" remarked Winnie Kiiza, wife of Dr. Besigye, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The high-profile trial, which has attracted public interest, continues to face scrutiny for its approach to handling cases involving opposition figures critical of the Ugandan government.
While Besigye was expected before court at 9am, he was brought in a grey van with dark tinted mirrors escorted by two military vehicles.
The court was treated to chaos as supporters of Besigye chanted, "We shall overcome " which lasted for close to 20 minutes before the military moved to push them on the veranda.
Ernest kalibbala who proceeded in court from on set asked court to clear the lawyers who had been denied access for staying with their phones.
The counsel told court they were restrained from proceeding without their colleague counsel lawyers.
The court is currently in a short break to consider allowing or not the other lawyers who were denied access over failure to keep aside their phones and laptops.
After consulting with Lukwago during the break, counsel Kalibbala returned to ask the chairman of the court martial, General Freeman Mugabe, to accept only seven more members of Besigye’s legal team to have access to court.
Gen Mugabe adjourned for rhe second time for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, Lukwago, Karua and Kiiza are still outside court martial.
