The legal team representing Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale has raised serious concerns over what they describe as unjustifiable delays in the hearing of their clients’ bail application, resulting in unnecessary expenses and prolonged inconvenience for both the accused and their advocates.
Led by Senior Counsel Martha Karua, the defense team emphasized that under established court procedures; a bail application should be heard and concluded within 30 days.
However, they claim this legal standard has not been respected in the case of Dr. Besigye and Hajji Lutale.
The lawyers have also criticized the judiciary for its repeated failure to produce the accused individuals in court, a lapse they argue undermines the integrity of the judicial process and fosters perceptions of injustice.
Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale were arrested on November 17, 2024, in Kenya, allegedly in possession of pistols and other suspicious items.
The matter was initially brought before the Nakawa Chief Magistrates Court and later transferred to the High Court on treason charges.
The legal team has also taken issue with the conduct of Justice Emmanuel Baguma, accusing him of hostility and alleging that he is incapable of delivering impartial justice in this matter.
As a result, they have formally requested his recusal and appealed to the head of the judiciary to intervene.
Additionally, calls have been made for the judiciary to issue an official apology over what the defense describes as an “oversight” — the failure to produce the accused persons in court.
The legal team argues that such negligence reflects insensitivity and erodes public confidence in the justice system.
The case continues to attract public attention as it raises broader questions about judicial efficiency, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ rights in politically sensitive cases.
By Alex Magala
17th July 2025
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