Fresh concerns over the fairness of proceedings in the high-profile case involving Kizza Besigye have emerged after his co-accused, Obeid Lutale, told court he lacked legal representation during a crucial appearance on Tuesday.
Lutale, appearing before High Court Judge Baguma in Kampala, stated: “I still don’t have lawyers. I need lawyers for my fair trial,” urging the court to formally record his plea.
His remarks come amid growing scrutiny of the case, formally registered as Uganda v. Col. (Rtd.) Dr. Kizza Besigye & Others, Criminal Session Case No. 0335 of 2025.
The development follows last week’s dramatic turn of events in which Besigye collapsed during court proceedings and was later admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at Mulago Hospital.
His absence in court has intensified debate over whether the trial should proceed in its current state.
Lawyer Eron Kiiza, commenting on Tuesday’s session, questioned the pace of the proceedings, arguing that the accused persons had effectively been deprived of legal counsel.
According to Kiiza, the defence team initially instructed by both Besigye and Lutale has been systematically dismantled.
He cited the deportation of lead counsel Martha Karua, who was reportedly sent back to Kenya, as well as the arrest and prosecution of co-counsel Erias Lukwago.
Kiiza further alleged that other defence lawyers have faced intimidation, raising broader concerns about access to justice.
“The right to counsel of one’s choice is not a courtesy. It is guaranteed by law,” Kiiza stated, referencing constitutional and regional legal provisions that safeguard fair trial rights.
Despite these concerns, the prosecution has continued to push for an expedited hearing, a move critics argue could undermine due process.
Lutale’s plea for representation, coupled with Besigye’s hospitalization, has now placed the integrity of the trial under renewed public and legal scrutiny.