Tension in Kampala as Martha Karua Confronts Uganda Prisons Boss Over Besigye’s Detention

Kenyan politician and senior counsel Martha Karua has arrived in Uganda, leading a legal team and members of the People's Front for Freedom (PFF) in demanding the immediate release of opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and his aide, Hajj Obeid Lutale.

The legal team gathered at the Uganda Prisons Service Headquarters in Kampala to meet Commissioner General Johnson Byabashaija, following the Supreme Court ruling that declared the trial of civilians in military courts unconstitutional.

The ruling, delivered on January 31, reaffirmed that military tribunals have no jurisdiction over civilians, a decision that Besigye’s legal team argues should result in his immediate freedom.

Martha Karua, a prominent advocate for democracy and human rights in East Africa, emphasized that there is no legal basis for detaining Besigye and Lutale any longer.

Members of the opposition and human rights activists have also condemned the continued detention of Besigye, accusing the government of ignoring the judiciary’s decision.

The PFF, a political movement aligned with Dr. Kizza Besigye, vowed to escalate legal and political pressure until their leader is released.

LINK: https://x.com/DailyMonitor/status/1886348137788211411

Despite the Supreme Court’s verdict, Ugandan authorities have remained silent on Besigye’s release, fueling speculation about the government’s reluctance to comply. The legal team is expected to file further legal action if Uganda Prisons Service fails to act on their demands.