Uganda's High Court has directed opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused to select legal representatives from the court's State Brief criminal panel after repeated disputes over legal representation delayed the start of their treason trial. The directive was issued on Monday by Justice Emmanuel Baguma , who said the prolonged disagreements surrounding the accused persons' legal counsel had resulted in multiple adjournments, preventing the case from proceeding. During the court session, Besigye argued that the absence of his lawyers was caused by the State. He maintained that

Uganda's High Court has directed opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused to select legal representatives from the court's State Brief criminal panel after repeated disputes over legal representation delayed the start of their treason trial.

The directive was issued on Monday by Justice Emmanuel Baguma, who said the prolonged disagreements surrounding the accused persons' legal counsel had resulted in multiple adjournments, preventing the case from proceeding.

During the court session, Besigye argued that the absence of his lawyers was caused by the State. He maintained that the trial should not begin until concerns regarding legal representation, access to prosecution evidence, and court records had been fully addressed.

"The accused persons have been represented by counsel of their choice since day one. However, due to subsequent concerns arising regarding legal representation, the matter has experienced several adjournments," Justice Baguma ruled.

The judge subsequently directed Besigye and the other accused to choose lawyers from the court's State Brief panel to ensure the proceedings move forward without further delays.

The treason case remains one of Uganda's most closely watched legal proceedings, attracting significant public and political attention as Besigye, a longtime government critic, continues to challenge the charges against him.

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