A Ugandan court pushed back Kizza Besigye and Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya's legal proceedings until late April after sparking a dramatic courtroom confrontation. Prosecutors battled to keep investigation details under wraps during a tense hearing focused on accessing the defendants' telecommunication records.
The state's legal team fought hard to prevent public scrutiny of their investigative strategies. They argued that cross-examining a key detective would risk national security and potentially sabotage their treason case. Chief state attorney Richard Birivumbuka insisted the Nakawa court lacked appropriate jurisdiction to handle such sensitive matters.
Besigye's defense lawyers resisted attempts to close the courtroom. They cited constitutional provisions guaranteeing public judicial proceedings and transparent legal processes. The legal standoff resulted in magistrate Esther Nyadoi ruling that the detective's testimony would occur behind closed doors to protect ongoing investigations.
Immediately challenging the ruling, Besigye's legal team sought review through the High court. The three accused remain charged with treason allegations involving claims of soliciting international support to overthrow the government potentially. Arrested in Kenya in November 2024 and subsequently repatriated, Besigye and Lutale have been navigating a complex legal landscape that spans multiple jurisdictions and investigative agencies.
The state's legal team fought hard to prevent public scrutiny of their investigative strategies. They argued that cross-examining a key detective would risk national security and potentially sabotage their treason case. Chief state attorney Richard Birivumbuka insisted the Nakawa court lacked appropriate jurisdiction to handle such sensitive matters.
Besigye's defense lawyers resisted attempts to close the courtroom. They cited constitutional provisions guaranteeing public judicial proceedings and transparent legal processes. The legal standoff resulted in magistrate Esther Nyadoi ruling that the detective's testimony would occur behind closed doors to protect ongoing investigations.
Immediately challenging the ruling, Besigye's legal team sought review through the High court. The three accused remain charged with treason allegations involving claims of soliciting international support to overthrow the government potentially. Arrested in Kenya in November 2024 and subsequently repatriated, Besigye and Lutale have been navigating a complex legal landscape that spans multiple jurisdictions and investigative agencies.
