Uganda: Judiciary Sets Strict Rules in Besigye, Lutale Trial

What the report says

AllAfrica, carrying a Nile Post report from Kampala by Kenneth Kazibwe, reported on 29 July 2026 that Uganda’s Judiciary has introduced revised security and access rules for the trial of Dr. Kizza Besigye, Hajji Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola. The Judiciary said the measures are meant to keep the proceedings orderly, protect the fairness of the trial and maintain public access within security limits.

Under the guidelines reported by Nile Post, courtroom entry will be restricted to designated court staff, the accused, prosecution and defence lawyers, accredited journalists and members of the public admitted according to available space. Journalists must seek accreditation through the Judiciary’s Public Relations Officer, and the court may cap the number of reporters allowed inside. Media equipment such as cameras, audio recorders, laptops and other devices will be screened each time journalists attend.

The report said live broadcast requests must be submitted to the Public Relations Officer and will be assessed individually. Photography and filming inside the courtroom will be limited, with images of the trial judge and witnesses barred unless the court gives permission. Mobile phones, tablets and other smart communication devices will not be allowed in the courtroom.

Nile Post reported that Besigye faces accusations of treason and plotting to remove President Yoweri Museveni’s government by force. According to the state’s allegations cited in the article, Besigye and his co-accused held secret meetings in Switzerland, Greece and Kenya between 2023 and late 2024 and sought military, financial and logistical support from foreign entities. The restrictions matter because the case involves a prominent opposition figure and raises scrutiny over open justice, security and media access.