law 17 August 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Lawyers Demand Live Broadcast of Besigye Treason Trial, Cite Constitutional Rights
A coalition of 18 Ugandan lawyers is urging the Judiciary to permit live streaming of Dr. Kizza Besigye's treason trial, arguing that current restrictions violate the constitutional principle of open justice. The legal professionals contend that public scrutiny is vital for maintaining confidence in the judicial system. Source: https://observer.ug/news/lawyers-demand-live-streaming-of-besigye-treason-trial
Eighteen Ugandan lawyers have formally petitioned the Judiciary, advocating for the live streaming of the treason trial involving Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused, Hajji Obeid Lutale and Capt Denis Oola. The lawyers argue that recent Judiciary guidelines, which severely restrict public access and unauthorized live coverage, undermine the fundamental constitutional principle of open justice.
These guidelines, issued on July 29, 2026, also prohibit photography, videography, and the use of communication devices within the courtroom. The lawyers criticize the Judiciary for rejecting previous calls from the Uganda Law Society (ULS) to broadcast the proceedings live, emphasizing that justice must not only be done but must be visibly seen to be done.
“Public scrutiny of a trial naturally acts as a powerful instrument for creating confidence in the fairness, objectivity, and impartiality of the administration of justice,” the lawyers stated. They warned that restricting public access could foster speculation and erode trust in the Judiciary.
The legal group deemed the revised guidelines “constitutionally indefensible,” asserting that while public hearings can have permissible restrictions for morality, public order, or national security, these must be necessary in a democratic society. They also questioned the decision to place broadcasting approval authority with an administrative officer rather than a judicial one.
Citing an inconsistency, the lawyers pointed to the recent murder trial of Okello Onyum, which featured a fully public mobile court with live broadcasting and large screens. They argue that if live broadcasting was deemed compatible with fair trial rights in a capital murder case, it should not be seen as a threat to the Besigye treason trial. The lawyers suggest the disparity in treatment is politically motivated, lacking constitutional justification.
They proposed safeguards for the Besigye trial, including pixelating witnesses and implementing time delays, alongside increased physical access through additional seating and public screens. The lawyers advocate for transparent and consistent mechanisms for live broadcasting applicable to all criminal proceedings without political bias, believing transparency ultimately strengthens the Judiciary.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)