Veteran journalist Tim Kalyegira was on Friday released on bail, but his freedom has been overshadowed by explosive claims from human rights lawyer Eron Kiiza, who alleges the journalist was secretly detained before being formally presented in court.
Kalyegira was granted cash bail of Shs650,000 by the Kira Chief Magistrate’s Court after days in custody over charges of allegedly operating online media platforms without a broadcasting licence.
His arrest had already drawn attention from media observers, but Kiiza’s remarks have intensified scrutiny around the case.
In a statement, Kiiza said he had initially withheld a message of solidarity until the court ruled on the bail application. Following the decision, he welcomed Kalyegira’s release but sharply criticised the circumstances of his arrest and detention.
“The criminals are after his voice, his pen, his mouth, his liberty, his dignity and ultimately his health,” Kiiza stated.
He further alleged that Kalyegira was held in a basement facility before being transferred to police custody and later arraigned in court, claims that could raise fresh concerns about due process and the treatment of detainees.
Kiiza also dismissed the charges against the journalist as legally flawed, arguing they misrepresent the practice of journalism in the digital age.
“He now faces time-wasting defective charges. He is no broadcaster. He is a journalist. Journalism is a right, an honour and a profession. It is not a crime,” he added.
Authorities have maintained that Kalyegira violated Uganda’s communications regulations by operating online platforms without the required authorisation, a position likely to form the backbone of the prosecution’s case as proceedings continue.
The case has sparked wider debate about press freedom and the regulation of digital media in Uganda, with critics warning that applying broadcasting laws to online journalism could limit freedom of expression.
Kalyegira is expected to return to court as the case progresses, setting the stage for a legal battle that could test the boundaries between state control and media independence in Uganda’s evolving digital landscape.