We were kidnapped, detained illegally - Besigye tells court

Opposition stalwart Dr Kizza Besigye yesterday delivered an emotional address before the High Court in Kampala, detailing what he described as his illegal abduction and detention by state agents and questioning the court’s impartiality in handling his treason case. Dr Besigye, together with his co-accused, Mr Obeid Lutale and Capt Denis Oola, appeared before Justice Emmanuel Baguma of the Criminal Division amid chants from supporters who filled the courtroom gallery.

The hearing began at 11:24am when Justice Baguma entered and called the case. Senior counsel Martha Karua led the defence team alongside lawyers Ernest Kalibbala, Fredrick Mpanga, Eron Kiiza, Elias Lukwago, and Simon Nsubuga, representing Capt Oola. Chief State Attorney Richard Birivumbuka reminded the court that during the previous session, Dr Besigye had sought permission to address the bench in writing, which he did on October 3.

Justice Baguma confirmed receipt of the letter and allowed him to speak. Dr Besigye recounted what he called an abduction from Nairobi, Kenya, in November last year.