Lawyers representing Dr. Kizza Besigye, the leader of the opposition in Uganda, have encountered bureaucratic obstacles in their efforts to secure his release following a Supreme Court ruling against civilian trials in military courts.
Three days after the landmark judgment, Besigye’s legal team spent Tuesday navigating government offices, seeking clarity on implementing the court’s decision. Their day began at the Attorney General’s office, where they sought information about Besigye’s potential release.
The Attorney General responded by writing to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the Chief Justice, recommending case transfers to civilian courts. However, this response fell short of the legal team’s expectations, with one lawyer noting the ruling specified “immediate effect.”
Frustrated by the initial response, the lawyers proceeded to Luzira Prison to meet with Commissioner General of Prisons Johnson Byabashaija. After four hours of closed-door discussions, they were redirected back to the Attorney General.
“It’s like they are waiting for some order from somewhere, but we don’t know where,” said Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, a member of Besigye’s legal team.
The General Court Martial has suspended its proceedings, but Besigye and his associate Obeid Lutale remain imprisoned. The Supreme Court’s January 31 ruling declared military tribunals unconstitutional for trying civilians, with Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo emphasizing the importance of respecting democratic principles.
Complicating matters, UPDF spokesperson Colonel Chris Magezi has stated the military will not release Besigye. President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda further undermined the judicial process, dismissing the ruling with laughter and declaring, “We are not ruled by judges.”
International rights groups have expressed concern, closely monitoring the government’s response to the court’s decision. The ongoing situation highlights tensions between Uganda’s judicial system and political leadership.
Besigye’s legal team remains committed to securing his release, continuing to navigate the complex governmental bureaucracy in pursuit of implementing the Supreme Court’s ruling.
