National Unity Platform (NUP) Secretary General David Rubongoya has pushed back against President Yoweri Museveni’s claims that opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye is deliberately delaying his treason trial, arguing that the issue at hand is not refusal to stand trial but the lack of guarantees for a fair hearing.
In a response, Rubongoya said Besigye has consistently maintained his willingness to face trial, provided that the process meets constitutional standards.
He cited Article 28 of Uganda’s Constitution, which outlines the right to a fair hearing, as the basis of Besigye’s demands.
Rubongoya outlined key principles of a fair trial, including the presumption of innocence, access to an independent and impartial judge, and the right to legal representation of one’s choice.
He further pointed to the need for adequate time and facilities to prepare a defence, as well as a public and timely hearing where the accused can challenge prosecution witnesses.
“Dr Besigye is not opposed to being tried,” Rubongoya stated. “What he has demanded is a free and fair trial as guaranteed by the Constitution.”
The NUP official questioned whether such standards can be achieved under the current circumstances surrounding the case.
He raised concerns about what he described as the persecution of defence lawyers and alleged attempts by the state to conceal witnesses, arguing that such actions undermine the integrity of the judicial process.
Rubongoya also referenced repeated legal applications seeking recusal of judicial officers over alleged bias, which have reportedly been dismissed.
He questioned whether Besigye can realistically expect impartial adjudication in light of these developments.
His remarks come after President Museveni, in a national address, accused Besigye of misusing the legal system to stall proceedings, questioning why the veteran opposition leader would avoid trial if he believes in his innocence.
The contrasting positions highlight a deepening dispute over the handling of Besigye’s case, with broader implications for perceptions of judicial independence and rule of law in Uganda.