Judiciary tightens media access rules as Besigye trial resumes

What the report says

The Observer reports that Uganda’s Judiciary has issued tighter rules for journalists and the public ahead of the resumed trial of Col Dr Kizza Besigye, Hajji Obeid Lutale and Capt Denis Oola at the Criminal Division of the High Court. The directives were announced in a Tuesday press statement and presented as part of a security plan for the high-profile proceedings.

Under the measures described by the Judiciary, courtroom entry will be restricted to approved court staff, the accused persons, prosecution and defence teams, accredited media, and members of the public only as space allows. Journalists must seek accreditation in advance through the Judiciary’s Public Relations Office, and the court may reduce the number of reporters permitted inside depending on seating and space constraints.

The rules also require security checks for media equipment such as cameras, laptops, recorders and other electronic devices before they enter court premises. Any request to livestream or broadcast the proceedings must be submitted for approval. Photography and video recording inside the courtroom are limited, with images of the judge and witnesses requiring prior court authorisation. Phones, tablets and similar communication devices are barred during proceedings.

The Judiciary says the changes are meant to balance security, orderly court conduct and the principle of a public hearing. As context beyond the article, Besigye is widely known in Uganda as an opposition politician and former presidential candidate, which helps explain the heightened public and media interest in the case.