“Besigye May Never Walk Free Under Uganda’s Court Martial, If An Advocate Coming To Represent Kizza Besigye Is Assaulted To That extent” Says Martha Karua

Martha Karua, a veteran Kenyan politician and human rights advocate, has raised serious concerns about the treatment of Dr. Kizza Besigye and his legal team, questioning the possibility of achieving justice within Uganda’s military judicial system. Her comments followed the sentencing of Dr. Besigye’s lawyer, Eron Kiiza, who was given a nine-month jail term by the General Court Martial under highly controversial circumstances.

Karua specifically criticized the integrity of the military court, highlighting the severity of the assault on Kiiza as an example of the harsh environment in which such cases are tried. She pointed out that if an advocate defending Dr. Besigye is subjected to such violence, it raises doubts about the likelihood of fair trials or justice being served in a system dominated by the use of force.

Karua’s remarks reflect growing concerns about the erosion of due process in Uganda, especially for those perceived as political dissidents. The sentencing of Eron Kiiza has sparked widespread outrage, with many critics arguing that it is a clear example of intimidation tactics aimed at suppressing opposition voices. The court’s decision to deny Kiiza the right to defend himself, coupled with reports of his physical assault, has raised alarms about the impartiality and fairness of the military court system.

Her statement also underscores broader apprehension regarding the rule of law in Uganda, particularly in high-profile cases involving opposition figures like Dr. Besigye. Dr. Besigye, a long-time opposition leader and vocal critic of the government, is currently in detention alongside his aide, Hajj Lutale, on charges of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. This case has drawn significant attention, as the international community and human rights organizations continue to call for reforms to Uganda’s judicial system, especially with regard to the trial of civilians in military courts.

As the legal battles for Dr. Besigye and his team persist, their fate remains uncertain. Advocates like Martha Karua continue to sound the alarm about the deteriorating state of justice in Uganda, drawing attention to the need for urgent reforms and protection of human rights.