By Sekaggya Seka Moses
After 147 days in detention, Ugandan opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye is waiting for the High Court’s decision on his bail application.
Besigye, 68, was arrested in Nairobi and extradited to Uganda in November 2024, facing treason charges alongside his aide, Hajj Obeid Lutale. They’ve been held at Luzira Prison since their arrest.
Besigye’s bail application, filed nearly two months ago, cites his advanced age and deteriorating health as grounds for release.
His legal team argues that the prison conditions are unsuitable for someone of his age and health status, violating his constitutional rights.
They emphasize that he’s already spent over 100 days in both lawful and unlawful detention.
The prosecution opposes the bail application, citing concerns over national security and the gravity of the charges. They argue that releasing Besigye could interfere with ongoing investigations.
Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, and other supporters have expressed concern over his health and prolonged detention, urging the court to consider his age and health in the ruling.
Human rights organizations have also called for adherence to legal procedures and respect for individual rights, emphasizing the importance of a fair and timely judicial process.
The High Court’s decision on the bail application is anticipated to have broader implications for Uganda’s legal and political landscape.
Observers await the ruling, which could set a precedent for similar cases.
Justice Rosette Comfort Kania, presiding over the bail hearing, has the discretion to grant or deny the application or impose conditional release for Besigye and Lutale.
In 2016, Besigye was released on a 100 million shilling non-cash bail pending the hearing of his treason charges.
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