A Ugandan court has rejected a bail application from veteran opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who has been behind bars for nearly nine months on treason charges. The ruling, delivered on Friday, has intensified concerns among rights groups and political figures, including opposition leader Bobi Wine, about what they describe as a growing crackdown ahead of Uganda’s national election early next year. President Yoweri Museveni, now 80, is seeking re-election.
The government has denied claims of politically motivated targeting, insisting that all detained individuals face legitimate criminal charges. Besigye, once Museveni’s close ally and personal physician, has run against him in four elections, each time unsuccessfully. He has yet to announce if he will run again.
Why Was Bail Denied?
Besigye was forcefully returned to Uganda from Kenya in November last year. Initially charged in a military tribunal, his case was later moved to a civilian court. His legal team argued that he should be released automatically on bail, citing Uganda’s 180-day limit for pre-trial detention without trial commencement.
However, Judge Emmanuel Baguma ruled that the 180-day count began only on February 21, when Besigye was officially remanded to the civilian court. This calculation leaves him 12 days short of qualifying for mandatory bail.
Political Context and Reactions
Besigye’s detention has become a flashpoint in Uganda’s political climate. Opposition figures argue that his case highlights the state’s use of legal processes to sideline key challengers ahead of elections. Human rights advocates warn that the continued detention of prominent opposition leaders could undermine democratic freedoms and escalate political tensions in the coming months.
The treason trial date has not yet been set, leaving the future of one of Uganda’s most enduring political figures uncertain.
By Lucky Anyanje