Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has condemned the handling of court proceedings following the collapse of veteran politician Dr Kizza Besigye during his treason trial in Kampala.
Dr Besigye reportedly collapsed in court on Wednesday, forcing an abrupt halt to the session as security officers and court officials moved in to assist him.
He was later taken to Mulago National Referral Hospital, where he is said to be receiving treatment.
In a strongly worded statement, Bobi Wine criticised the conduct of the trial, accusing the presiding judge, Emmanuel Baguma, of allowing proceedings to continue despite concerns over Besigye’s health and legal representation.
“Disturbing scenes were witnessed in court as the judge insisted on proceeding with the trial in violation of Dr Besigye’s basic rights,” Bobi Wine said.
He claimed that Besigye had repeatedly objected to being denied legal representation of his choice, but the court proceeded to hear testimony from a state witness identified as Orlando Wilson.
According to Bobi Wine, Besigye collapsed while the hearing was ongoing and remains unconscious. He described the trial as unfair and called for adherence to constitutional standards.
“All Dr Besigye and his co-accused are asking for is a fair trial before a fair judge, or no trial at all. The Constitution must prevail,” he added.
Dr Besigye, a long-time critic of President Yoweri Museveni, has been in detention since November 2024, facing treason charges.
His arrest and continued prosecution have drawn criticism from opposition leaders and rights groups, who argue that the case is politically driven.