KAMPALA, Uganda — The General Court Martial in Makindye has remanded Retired Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused, Haji Obeid Lutale, to Luzira Prison until December 10, 2024.
The court’s decision was made after Besigye’s lawyers requested an adjournment to process the practicing certificate of Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua, who lacks a practicing license from the Uganda Law Council.
Court Martial Chairperson Brigadier Robert Freeman Mugabe declined to adjourn the matter to the following day, citing prior scheduled cases. Mugabe proposed December 10 as the next court date.
Prosecution’s Col. Raphael Mugisha questioned the reason for the adjournment, while Besigye’s lawyer, Lukwago, emphasized the importance of fairness and resolving issues regarding Karua’s papers.
Mugabe ruled that the defense’s request for an adjournment was valid, and after consulting with the Judge Advocate, confirmed that the request was indeed valid.
Besigye and Lutale face charges of unlawful possession of ammunition and a firearm. The duo, who were arrested in Kenya, have been battling the charges.
This is not the first time Dr. Besigye has been arraigned before the Court Martial. In 2006, he was charged with treason, rape, and concealment of treason, which were later dismissed.
Since his declaration for the presidency, Besigye has faced numerous charges in several courts across the country, though no conviction has been obtained. He has consistently accused the state of politically motivated persecution rather than prosecution.
