The Judiciary has announced new measures to regulate courtroom access, media coverage and security arrangements ahead of the hearing of the treason trial involving opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, Hajji Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola.
The revised guidelines, issued for proceedings at the High Court Criminal Division, are aimed at ensuring that the trial proceeds in an orderly manner while maintaining the constitutional right to a fair and open hearing.
Under the new arrangements, only authorised court officials, the accused persons, state and defence lawyers, accredited journalists and members of the public admitted based on available courtroom space will be allowed access.
The Judiciary said journalists covering the proceedings must first obtain accreditation from the Judiciary’s Public Relations Officer before attending court.
The court also warned that the number of journalists admitted may be restricted depending on the capacity of the courtroom.
“The Court reserves the right to limit the number of court reporters in the court depending on the space available,” the Judiciary stated.
Media practitioners will also be required to present their equipment for security checks before entering the courtroom. The requirement applies to cameras, audio recording devices, laptops and other gadgets used during coverage.
“Journalists will be required to submit their gadgets for screening by security every time they come to cover the proceedings,” the Judiciary said.
The court has further placed restrictions on live broadcasts, stating that any requests for live coverage must be submitted to the Judiciary’s Public Relations Officer for consideration.
“Any request for live broadcast of Court proceedings shall be made to the Public Relations Officer and the requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis,” the statement reads.
The guidelines also restrict photography and videography inside the courtroom, particularly involving the trial judge and witnesses, unless permission has been granted by the court.
Mobile phones, tablets and other communication devices will not be allowed inside the courtroom during proceedings.
The Judiciary said the guidelines are part of efforts to protect the dignity of court processes and ensure that all parties receive a fair hearing.
The case
Dr. Besigye is charged with treason contrary to Section 23(1)(c) of the Penal Code Act, Cap 128.
According to the prosecution, Dr. Kizza Besigye, his aide Hajji Obeid Lutale, 65, Captain Denis Oola, 48, a UPDF officer, and others still at large allegedly plotted to overthrow the Government of Uganda between 2023 and November 2024.
The alleged activities are said to have taken place in several countries, including Switzerland, Greece, Kenya, and Uganda.
Prosecutors contend that the accused attended meetings in Geneva, Athens, Nairobi, and Kampala as part of a scheme to overthrow the government by force of arms.
The state further alleges that the accused expressed or advanced the alleged plot through various acts and utterances made during the period under investigation.
Dr. Besigye and his co-accused have previously denied any wrongdoing.
