The President of the Uganda Law Society (ULS), Isaac Ssemakadde, has sharply criticised the judiciary following the dramatic collapse of opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye during a court session on Wednesday, describing the incident as a reflection of systemic injustice.
Besigye, who is facing treason charges, collapsed inside the courtroom after reportedly protesting the proceedings and his continued detention.
The incident forced an abrupt halt to the hearing as he was rushed out under heavy security for urgent medical attention.
His deteriorating health has raised fresh concerns about the conditions of his detention and access to proper care.
In a statement, Ssemakadde expressed alarm over both Besigye’s condition and the role of the courts in the unfolding situation.
“Watching Dr. Kizza Besigye suffer is painful. Watching our Judiciary enable it is worse,” he said.
He accused the judicial system of abandoning its constitutional mandate, arguing that institutions meant to uphold justice are instead complicit in alleged rights violations.
According to Ssemakadde, repeated denial of bail and failure to address claims of abuse point to a deeper institutional crisis.
“The institution meant to deliver justice now presides over oppression denying bail, ignoring rights abuses, and shielding impunity,” he stated.
The ULS president further criticised what he described as a lack of accountability within the judiciary, claiming that judicial officers who violate their oath face no consequences.
His remarks come amid mounting criticism from legal and civil society groups over the handling of politically sensitive cases.
“All while judges who break their oath face zero consequences. This is judicial tyranny. And it must end,” Ssemakadde added.
Besigye’s trial has been marked by controversy, including disputes over legal representation and allegations of procedural irregularities.