US EditionJailed Ugandan opposition figure boycotts trial, accusing judge of bias
Kizza Besigye and aide Obed Lutale boycotted their treason trial citing judge bias and illness; trial adjourned to October 1 after defendants failed to appear.
- On Monday, Kizza Besigye and Obed Lutale boycotted proceedings after Judge Emmanuel Baguma refused to recuse himself, leading the High Court Criminal Division, Kampala, to adjourn plea-taking until October 1, 2025.
- Defense lawyers argued the boycott stemmed from Judge Emmanuel Baguma's bail denial, saying his refusal was core to bias claims and disputing that Besigye had exceeded the 180-day maximum detention period.
- According to the letters read in court by Judge Emmanuel Baguma, Besigye cited illness and Lutale was unaware of the hearing date, while attorney Eron Kiiza said, `Besigye and Lutale took a decision never to appear before Judge Baguma`; only Captain Denis Oola appeared.
- Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Lino Anguzu said the hearing could not proceed without the accused, and Judge Emmanuel Baguma added concerns must be addressed in their presence, prompting adjournment.
- The treason charge, which can carry the death penalty, has drawn international criticism as Besigye's months-long detention highlights concerns about President Yoweri Museveni's human rights record ahead of the upcoming polls early next year.
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Opposition Leader Jailed: Bias Allegations Stall Treason Trial
Ugandan opposition figure Kizza Besigye boycotted his treason trial, alleging bias by the judge. His detention has highlighted President Museveni's human rights record as elections approach. Besigye's trial was delayed after he and his aide refused to appear in court, accusing Judge Baguma of lacking fairness.
·India
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources13
Leaning Left2Leaning Right2Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution43% Center
Bias Distribution
- 43% of the sources are Center
43% Center
L 29%
C 43%
R 29%
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