Uganda Law Society Seeks Live Streaming for Besigye Treason Case

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) is advocating for greater transparency in the judicial system by requesting the live streaming of Dr. Kizza Besigye’s treason case. In a formal letter dated July 15, 2026, addressed to the Deputy Registrar of the High Court Criminal Division, ULS urged the court to approve broadcasting the proceedings of Criminal Case No. 335 of 2025, which involves Dr. Besigye, Hajji Obeid Lutale, and Captain Denis Oola, via the Judiciary’s official platforms.

The society asserts that this measure is crucial for enhancing transparency, ensuring public access to justice, and fostering confidence in the judicial process, especially given the significant public interest surrounding this particular case.

According to Isaac Ssemakadde, the ULS President and Head of the Bar, the organization has received numerous complaints from the public regarding alleged judicial misconduct. Furthermore, journalists have reported facing restrictions in covering the trial sessions presided over by trial judge Emmanuel Baguma.

Ssemakadde argues that confining access to court proceedings contravenes the fundamental principles of open justice and infringes upon the public’s right to information. He pointed to a precedent set in the “Uganda versus Christopher Onyum” case, where live streaming was successfully implemented, suggesting a similar approach should be adopted for the current trial.

ULS believes that live streaming would effectively mitigate public speculation, promote accountability within the judiciary, and facilitate more accurate reporting of the trial’s developments. The petition is now pending before the High Court for consideration, with ULS expressing optimism for a positive outcome.

Read more at: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/357066/uls-petitions-high-court-for-live-streaming-of-besigye-treason-case