Opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye’s dramatic collapse in court has intensified scrutiny of his ongoing treason trial, with legal experts now warning that the proceedings risk losing legitimacy if urgent action is not taken.
Besigye collapsed in the dock during a High Court session in Kampala after protesting the continuation of proceedings without lawyers of his choice.
Witnesses said he repeatedly objected before falling, forcing a temporary halt to the hearing as court officials rushed to attend to him.
He was later taken to hospital, with reports indicating he was in critical condition and under intensive medical care.
The incident has triggered strong reactions within Uganda’s legal fraternity, with lawyer Jude Byamukama calling for Besigye’s immediate release on bail, arguing that his health and the integrity of the trial are now at stake.
“It is in the best interests of the State and the Judiciary to have Dr Besigye healthy and free to be subjected to a fair trial over the treason charge,” Byamukama said.
“In my humble opinion, the most feasible option to have a fair trial, in the eyes of all fair minded people, is to release him on bail and let him attend to his health as well as prepare his defence with or without counsel.”
Byamukama warned that the current circumstances surrounding the case could undermine public confidence in the justice system if not addressed decisively.
“As it stands, the trial has become a Soviet show trial that likely benefits no one,” he added.
Besigye, a longtime opposition leader, is facing treason charges in a case that has drawn widespread attention both locally and internationally.
His supporters have consistently maintained that the charges are politically motivated, a claim authorities have not formally addressed.