Besigye Vows to Defy Court, Alleges Political Persecution as Luzira Commandos Put on Standby
KAMPALA – A tense standoff is brewing between the judiciary and opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, who has declared he will refuse to cooperate with court proceedings, alleging he is a victim of political persecution orchestrated by the state.
According to reports, Dr. Besigye and his co-accused, his political assistant Al-Hajji Obed Kamulegeya Lutale, are planning a defiant stance in their upcoming court appearance. Sources indicate they intend to neither board the official prison vehicle nor appear via video link if requested by court authorities.
This planned act of civil disobedience stems from Besigye’s firm belief that the charges against him are politically motivated. He has publicly claimed that President Yoweri Museveni is using the judiciary, specifically under Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, to persecute him for his opposition activities, maintaining that he has “done nothing wrong.”
The situation is compounded by heightened security preparations. The duo was remanded to Luzira Upper Prison after their last court appearance. In anticipation of potential unrest or resistance, security commandos at Luzira Prison have reportedly been placed on high alert and are standing by to handle any situation that may arise from the court’s order.
This development sets the stage for a potentially volatile confrontation. The judiciary is expected to insist on the authority of the court, while Besigye and his supporters are poised to challenge it, framing it as a fight against an unjust system.
Police and prison authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the specific security measures. The case continues to draw significant national attention, highlighting the deep political divisions within the country.
The charges against Dr. Besigye and Mr. Lutale have not been detailed in this specific update.
