After weeks of delays, Uganda’s Attorney General has signed the decree for Dr. Kizza Besigye’s habeas corpus application, a significant step in the legal battle to secure his release.
However, Besigye’s legal team remains frustrated over the prolonged process, raising concerns about possible political interference.
Besigye’s lawyer, Erias Lukwago, welcomed the move but criticized the time it took for the Attorney General to act. “This is a constitutional matter, and yet it has taken unnecessary delays. The government should not play politics with people’s rights,” Lukwago said.
With the decree now signed, Besigye’s legal team swiftly served it to the Commissioner General of Prisons and filed it before Justice Singiza. However, Lukwago remains skeptical, fearing more bureaucratic obstacles.
“I extracted the decree, placed it before the Attorney General for approval, and he delayed for weeks. It was only yesterday that he signed it. What does that tell you?” he questioned.
The legal battle has been ongoing for months, with Lukwago and his team successfully challenging the General Court Martial’s (GCM) jurisdiction over Besigye’s case. “The military court had no authority to try Besigye. We argued this, and thankfully, the GCM was removed from the case,” he added.
Now, all attention shifts to the judiciary, as Besigye’s team awaits the High Court’s decision. “We are watching closely. We hope the judiciary will act independently and process this application without any further delays,” Lukwago emphasized.
The opposition leader’s supporters and human rights activists continue to call for his immediate release, arguing that his prolonged detention is unlawful. The coming days will determine whether the legal victory translates into Besigye’s freedom or if more hurdles await in his pursuit of justice.
