Former Kira Municipality MP Ssemujju Nganda has criticised the conduct of proceedings in the treason case against opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye, following Monday’s High Court session in Kampala that ended with an adjournment to June 11, 2026.
The case, heard before Justice Emmanuel Baguma at the Criminal Division, was scheduled for pre-trial directions ahead of the anticipated start of the full hearing.
However, it quickly became a point of political and legal debate after claims of procedural tension inside the courtroom.
Ssemujju described the session as abruptly concluded, alleging that disruptions occurred after Besigye raised objections over the conduct of proceedings.
“Besigye case unceremoniously adjourned to Thursday June 11. When Besigye began to complain against the conduct of proceedings, Justice Baguma stormed out,” Ssemujju stated, adding that the courtroom atmosphere reflected growing strain between the bench and the defence.
Court officials, however, have maintained that the proceedings followed standard procedure, including confirmation of trial readiness steps and scheduling of the next hearing date.
Ssemujju further accused the court of denying the opposition leader sufficient time to prepare his defence, arguing that the process falls short of constitutional guarantees.
“Judge Baguma has refused to give Besigye adequate time to prepare his defence in violation of Article 28 of the Constitution!” he said, citing the provision that guarantees the right to a fair hearing and adequate time for defence preparation.
Legal observers note that Article 28 of Uganda’s Constitution provides for a fair and public hearing before an independent and impartial court, a standard often invoked in high-profile political cases.
Ssemujju also referenced remarks allegedly made by Besigye during the proceedings, where the opposition figure reportedly expressed frustration with the pace and nature of the trial, drawing comparisons with past detention practices in Uganda’s political history.
These remarks have not been independently confirmed through official court records.
Besigye and co-accused Obed Lutale face treason-related charges linked to allegations of plotting to overthrow the government.
The matter has been marked by repeated adjournments, defence objections, and disputes over procedure since its transfer to civilian court following a Supreme Court ruling on military jurisdiction.
During Monday’s sitting, the court also finalized pre-trial arrangements, maintaining the June 11 date for commencement of the substantive hearing.