A fresh dispute has emerged over the handling of Dr Kizza Besigye’s treason trial after prominent lawyer Eron Kiiza sharply criticised new courtroom restrictions issued by Uganda’s Judiciary, warning they risk undermining public confidence in the justice system.
The guidelines, released on July 29, set strict conditions for access and media coverage during the high-profile proceedings at the Criminal Division of the High Court.
They include mandatory accreditation for journalists, limits on the number of reporters allowed in court, and tight controls on photography, broadcasting, and the use of electronic devices.
In a strongly worded statement, Kiiza argued that the measures contradict the constitutional principle of open justice.
“Justice must not only be done; it must be seen to be done. A courtroom is not a fortress of secrecy but a constitutional forum of public accountability,” he said.
He took issue with specific provisions requiring journalists to seek prior approval, submit equipment for repeated security screening, and operate under restrictions that bar mobile phones, tablets, and other communication devices inside the courtroom.
Live broadcasts will only be permitted on a case-by-case basis, while photography and videography require express court authorization.
Kiiza described the rules as “absurd, undemocratic and unjust,” warning that limiting public visibility of court proceedings could erode trust in the judiciary.
“Democracy does not perish because courtrooms grow noisy. It perishes when they grow opaque,” he stated.
The Judiciary has defended the measures as necessary to ensure security, orderly proceedings, and the integrity of the trial, maintaining that they are consistent with the principle of open justice.
However, Kiiza rejected that position, arguing that restricting access to information and communication tools effectively weakens transparency.
He cautioned that reduced public scrutiny could fuel speculation and diminish confidence in the outcome of the case.
“Where citizens cannot freely observe proceedings, suspicion displaces confidence,” he said, calling on authorities to reconsider the guidelines.
The treason case against Dr Besigye and his co-accused continues to draw significant regional attention, with legal observers and civil society groups closely monitoring how Uganda balances courtroom security with the public’s right to access justice.