The High Court Criminal Division in Kampala has adjourned the treason trial of retired Col. Dr. Kiiza Besigye and his co-accused to August 18 after hearing submissions from both the prosecution and the defense.
The proceedings resumed at about 11:05 a.m. before Justice Emmanuel Baguma. Co-accused Hajj Obeid Lutale and UPDF Captain Denis Oola Oyar were present in court, while Dr. Besigye was absent.
Lead prosecutor Thomas Jatiko informed the court that the prosecution was ready to continue leading the testimony of state witness Andrew Wilson, also known as Orlando. The witness’s testimony had been interrupted on July 29 after Dr. Besigye protested and later collapsed during the proceedings.
Assistant Superintendent of Prisons Trevor Alenyo told the court that Dr. Besigye had been admitted to Mulago National Referral Hospital. He added that Luzira Prison authorities had submitted a letter explaining his absence.
However, defense counsel on state brief Sylvia Namawejje objected to the hearing proceeding in Dr. Besigye’s absence. She said the defense had not been served with the prison’s letter and argued that a medical professional should personally explain Dr. Besigye’s condition before the trial continues.
Co-accused Hajj Obeid Lutale also asked the court to allow the accused to be represented by lawyers of their choice, arguing that their preferred legal team had been frustrated in carrying out its duties.
In response, Justice Baguma said he had considered all the submissions and reminded Captain Oyar that the court had already permitted his privately retained lawyers to work alongside the state-appointed legal team.
The judge further confirmed that the court had received a letter from Luzira Prison, accompanied by a medical report indicating that Dr. Besigye had been admitted to Mulago National Referral Hospital.
In his ruling, Justice Baguma directed the Commissioner General of Prisons to liaise with Mulago National Referral Hospital and obtain a comprehensive medical report indicating whether Dr. Besigye is medically fit to stand trial.
The case was subsequently adjourned to August 18, when the court is expected to consider the medical findings before determining the next course of the proceedings.
By Edith Namwanje
5th Aug 2026
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