The High Court in Kampala pushed back Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajj Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya's bail hearing to April 11, 2025. The veteran opposition politicians are battling treason charges before Justice Comfort Rosette Kania.
State prosecutors Richard Birivumbuka and Joseph Kyomuhendo asked for a delay, claiming they needed more time to review recently received affidavits. They argued the complexity of the case required a thorough investigation of the submitted documents.
Justice Kania allowed a slight extension, directing both defense and prosecution to submit written arguments by March 31. Kampala's Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, representing the defendants, criticized the prosecution's request as a delaying tactic.
Besigye, 68, and Lutale, 65, were arrested in Nairobi during a book launch by Kenya's former Justice Minister Martha Karua. A military court initially tried them before being charged with treason at the Nakawa Chief Magistrate's Court.
The defendants argue their arrest is politically motivated. Besigye's bail application highlights his advanced age, harsh prison conditions, and extended time on remand. Lutale emphasized his constitutional right to presumption of innocence and lack of additional pending charges.
Lukwago expressed frustration with the court's decision, pointing out Besigye's visibly deteriorating health and the unreasonable length of detention since November 16, 2024. The Supreme Court had previously ruled against trying civilians in military courts.
State prosecutors Richard Birivumbuka and Joseph Kyomuhendo asked for a delay, claiming they needed more time to review recently received affidavits. They argued the complexity of the case required a thorough investigation of the submitted documents.
Justice Kania allowed a slight extension, directing both defense and prosecution to submit written arguments by March 31. Kampala's Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, representing the defendants, criticized the prosecution's request as a delaying tactic.
Besigye, 68, and Lutale, 65, were arrested in Nairobi during a book launch by Kenya's former Justice Minister Martha Karua. A military court initially tried them before being charged with treason at the Nakawa Chief Magistrate's Court.
The defendants argue their arrest is politically motivated. Besigye's bail application highlights his advanced age, harsh prison conditions, and extended time on remand. Lutale emphasized his constitutional right to presumption of innocence and lack of additional pending charges.
Lukwago expressed frustration with the court's decision, pointing out Besigye's visibly deteriorating health and the unreasonable length of detention since November 16, 2024. The Supreme Court had previously ruled against trying civilians in military courts.
