Dr. Kizza Besigye to Spend Christmas in Luzira Prison as Court Martial Adjourns Case

Summary:

• Dr. Kizza Besigye will remain in Luzira Prison over Christmas after the General Court Martial adjourned his case to January 7, 2025. The defense team sought more time to reorganize after the Uganda Law Council denied Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua a special permit to represent him. Besigye faces charges linked to national security and unlawful firearm possession.

Prominent Ugandan politician Dr. Kizza Besigye will remain in Luzira Prison over the festive season after the General Court Martial adjourned his case to January 7, 2025. The state opposed a shorter adjournment, citing insufficient time to prepare for the proceedings.

Defense lawyer Erias Lukwago, leading a team of approximately 40 attorneys, argued for the adjournment, citing complications arising from the Uganda Law Council’s refusal to grant a practicing certificate to Martha Karua, a Kenyan lawyer who was set to spearhead the defense. Lukwago requested additional time to reorganize the team and consult with Dr. Besigye on the next course of action.

The presiding officer, Brig. Robert Freeman Mugabe, granted the extended timeline, allowing the defense team to address these challenges.

The case has drawn further attention following the Uganda Law Council’s decision to deny Karua the special permit. The Council stated she lacked unique legal expertise necessary for the case and suggested her involvement might carry political motives.

Dr. Besigye and his aide, Hajj Lutale, were arrested in Nairobi, Kenya, and brought to Uganda last month. The duo faces charges tied to national security and alleged unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, fueling debates about the case’s political undertones.