Besigye Rushed to Hospital After Collapsing in High Court During Treason Trial

Besigye being put into an ambulance

KAMPALA — Veteran opposition leader Kizza Besigye was rushed to hospital by ambulance on Wednesday after collapsing in the High Court in Kampala, forcing the suspension of proceedings in his treason trial.

Besigye had appeared before Emmanuel Baguma as the hearing of his treason case got underway. However, he strongly objected to the trial proceeding, arguing that he had been denied his constitutional right to legal representation by lawyers of his own choice.

His lead lawyer, Erias Lukwago, is currently in prison after being charged with misprision of treason, while his Kenyan counsel, Martha Karua, was denied entry into Uganda and therefore could not represent him in court.

Although the state provided lawyers to represent him, Besigye rejected the arrangement, insisting that he could only place his trust in his long-standing legal team, which has extensive experience handling complex political and treason cases.

He maintained that forcing him to proceed with state-appointed counsel would undermine his right to a fair trial.

After proceedings began, Besigye collapsed inside the courtroom, prompting concern among court officials, lawyers and supporters.

An ambulance transported him to hospital for urgent treatment.

Justice Baguma suspended the court session following the medical emergency, with Besigye’s health becoming the immediate priority. His condition was not immediately disclosed.

The dramatic incident comes amid growing concern over Besigye’s health and the circumstances surrounding his ongoing prosecution.

His supporters have repeatedly raised concerns about his welfare and access to legal representation as the case progresses. Further details are expected once medical officials and his legal team provide an update.

Watch the moment Besigye collapsed in court Here.

There were also claims that the Mzungu witness had destroyed the original audio recordings Here.