Uganda’s Judiciary has announced strict courtroom rules ahead of the high-profile treason trial involving opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye, signalling heightened security and limited public access as proceedings begin.
In a press release dated July 29, 2026, the Judiciary outlined revised guidelines governing access, media coverage, and use of electronic devices during the trial at the Criminal Division of the High Court in Kampala.
The case involves Dr Besigye alongside Hajj Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola.
According to the statement, courtroom access will be restricted to essential judicial staff, the accused persons, legal teams, accredited journalists, and a limited number of members of the public, depending on available space.
The Judiciary said the measures are part of a broader security plan aimed at ensuring orderly proceedings while safeguarding the right to a fair and public hearing.
Journalists intending to cover the case must obtain prior accreditation from the Judiciary’s Public Relations Office. Authorities also reserve the right to cap the number of reporters allowed inside the courtroom, citing space constraints.
In a move likely to affect real-time reporting, all media personnel will be required to submit their equipment—including cameras, audio recorders, and laptops—for security screening each time they attend the proceedings.
Requests for live broadcasts will be handled on a case-by-case basis, subject to approval by court officials.
The Judiciary further imposed tight restrictions on photography and videography. Images of the presiding judge and witnesses will not be permitted unless expressly authorized by the court.
Additionally, the use of communication devices such as mobile phones and tablets inside the courtroom has been banned.
“These measures are intended to solely ensure security, orderly proceedings and continued public access to the hearing while preserving the integrity of the judicial process and the constitutional principle of open justice,” the statement read.
The trial of Dr Besigye, a long-time critic of President Yoweri Museveni, has drawn regional and international attention, with observers closely watching how Uganda’s justice system handles the politically sensitive case under heightened scrutiny.