By Spy Uganda
In its continued commitment to upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law, the Uganda Law Society (ULS) has initiated a ‘trial watch program’ to monitor the court proceedings involving Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya. The move underscores the ULS’s dedication to ensuring fairness and transparency within Uganda’s judicial system.
In a statement released by ULS President Isaac Ssemakadde, the society announced the deployment of an independent observer from its Rule of Law Committee. The observer will systematically assess and report on the progress of the trial to the ULS leadership. This structured observation aims to identify any irregularities and evaluate potential interventions that align with the ULS’s statutory mandate to promote the rule of law and justice.
The ULS clarified that while it does not typically comment on active court cases, its trial watch program is designed to ensure:
- Transparency: Promoting open and impartial proceedings.
- Procedural Integrity: Ensuring adherence to proper legal processes and standards.
- Justice: Upholding fairness for all parties involved in the litigation.
Ssemakadde says this initiative reflects a proactive approach by the ULS in safeguarding judicial independence and accountability in Uganda. ”It also serves as a reminder of the critical role professional bodies play in supporting a robust legal framework. The ULS’s involvement could foster greater public confidence in the legal process, particularly in high-profile cases like that of Dr. Besigye and Hajji Kamulegeya,” he added.
Dr. Besigye was arrested in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024, under contentious circumstances that have drawn criticism from various quarters. He was later transferred to Uganda and charged at the Makindye General Military Court Martial with possession of illegal firearms and allegations of conspiring to destabilize Uganda’s security. Besigye denies these charges, and his detention has been extended until December 2, 2024, as investigations continue.
This incident has sparked concerns about violations of Kenyan territorial sovereignty, with Besigye’s lawyer questioning Kenya’s complicity. The Kenyan government has denied involvement, and critics highlight the irregularity of trying Besigye in a military court, given his civilian status. His supporters view these actions as part of a pattern of political persecution against the long-time challenger to President Yoweri Museveni’s administration.
