The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has welcomed a decision by the High Court to schedule the hearing of Dr. Kizza Besigye’s human rights enforcement application for June 30, describing the development as an important step in the ongoing legal proceedings involving the veteran opposition politician and his co-accused, Hajji Obeid Lutale.
In a statement issued on June 11, 2026, ULS President Isaac K. Ssemakadde said the court’s decision followed sustained efforts by the defence team and members of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF). The society argued that the ruling demonstrates the impact of determined legal advocacy in defending constitutional rights and ensuring access to justice.
The matter arose during proceedings before Justice Emmanuel Baguma, where the court issued production warrants for Dr. Besigye and Hajji Lutale after they did not appear for the scheduled commencement of their trial. The defence team has maintained that the human rights enforcement application should be heard and determined before the treason case proceeds.
According to the defence, the application raises several serious allegations, including claims of abduction from Kenya in November 2024, incommunicado detention, torture, denial of access to lawyers and family members, and concerns about the fairness of the proceedings. The application reportedly names several respondents, including the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba. These allegations have not been determined by the court and remain the subject of legal proceedings.
The Uganda Law Society praised the legal team representing Dr. Besigye and Hajji Lutale, including Senior Counsel Martha Karua, Erias Lukwago, and other advocates, for their persistence in pursuing what they describe as the protection of their clients’ constitutional rights. The lawyers have previously raised concerns about delayed disclosure of evidence, limited access to their clients, and the need for adequate time to prepare a defence.
Dr. Besigye and Hajji Lutale are facing capital treason charges linked to alleged activities between 2023 and 2024. The case was transferred from the military court system following a landmark Supreme Court decision that restricted the trial of civilians in military tribunals. The charges carry severe penalties, making the proceedings one of the most closely watched legal and political cases in Uganda.
The ULS stated that the case has become a significant test of the country’s commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. The society emphasized the importance of fair trial guarantees, judicial independence, and respect for constitutional protections for all citizens regardless of their political affiliation.
As the June 30 hearing approaches, attention is expected to focus on the outcome of the human rights application and its potential impact on the broader treason case. The Uganda Law Society has pledged to continue supporting efforts aimed at protecting judicial integrity and ensuring that legal processes are conducted fairly and transparently.
