Uganda Court Denies Bail to Opposition Leader Kizza Besigye in Treason Case
A Ugandan judge has refused to grant bail to veteran opposition figure Kizza Besigye, who has been in jail for nearly nine months on treason charges. Judge Emmanuel Baguma stated that Besigye falls short by 12 days of meeting the 180-day requirement for mandatory bail.
Background and Concerns
Besigye’s lawyers argued for his automatic release on bail due to spending more than 180 days in jail without his trial starting. The case has raised concerns among critics, including opposition leader Bobi Wine, about a government crackdown ahead of the national election next year.
Political History
Besigye, a former ally and physician of President Museveni, has contested against him in four elections, alleging fraud and intimidation despite losing all. Besigye, arrested multiple times, was forcefully returned to Uganda from Kenya last year and initially faced a military tribunal before being transferred to a civilian court.
While the government denies targeting opposition figures, Besigye’s case has drawn international attention.
Source: News Agencies