Law Society Condemns Museveni's Comments on Besigye Trial

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has voiced strong disapproval of President Yoweri Museveni’s recent comments regarding the ongoing treason trial of opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye. According to the ULS, the President’s televised address on Saturday evening, where he critiqued Besigye’s legal strategy and the granting of bail in serious cases, constituted an interference with the judicial process.

In his address, President Museveni suggested that Besigye was deliberately delaying his own trial and questioned why an accused person should be allowed to prolong proceedings. He also expressed reservations about the continued granting of bail, particularly in cases where witness intimidation is a concern.

However, the ULS issued a statement asserting that the President’s remarks on an active case violated the sub judice principle, which prohibits public discussion of matters before the courts. They argued that such comments risk prejudicing Dr. Besigye’s right to a fair hearing and undermine judicial independence.

The lawyers’ body further stated that the President’s criticism of bail infringed upon personal liberty and the presumption of innocence guaranteed by the Constitution. The ULS emphasized that decisions on bail are solely within the court’s jurisdiction and cannot be dictated by the executive branch. They also pointed out that abolishing bail would contravene both the Ugandan Constitution and international legal standards.

The ULS urged President Museveni to refrain from commenting on pending court cases, highlighting that such actions erode public confidence in the justice system. They also called upon the Judiciary to publicly defend its independence, commending a magistrate who reportedly resisted external interference in a separate case. Additionally, the ULS called for addressing systemic issues within the justice sector, such as inefficiency and corruption.

Dr. Besigye is currently facing treason charges in civilian court, following a Supreme Court ruling that barred civilians from military trials. His case has seen several legal disputes concerning the prosecution and proceedings management.

Source: https://observer.ug/news/law-society-condemns-musevenis-comments-on-besigye-trial