The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has asked the High Court’s Criminal Division to allow live streaming of proceedings in the criminal trial involving Dr. Kiiza Kifefe Besigye, Hajji Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola, arguing that public access to the case is essential to promoting transparency and confidence in the administration of justice.
The Society’s Vice President, Asiimwe Anthony in a letter dated July 15 and addressed to the Deputy Registrar of the Criminal Division, Samuel Twakyire, the Society requested that proceedings in HCCS Case No. 335 of 2025, Uganda v. Dr. Kiiza Kifefe Besigye, Hajji Obeid Lutale & Captain Denis Oola, be broadcast through Judiciary platforms.
The ULS said the request follows complaints it has received from members of the public alleging judicial misconduct in the handling of the case, which is before Justice Emmanuel Baguma. It also cited concerns raised by journalists who reportedly have been denied access to cover the proceedings.
“The ULS is concerned that restricting public and media access undermines the principles of open justice, accountability, and the right of the public to information on matters of significant public interest,” Asiimwe said. The Society argued that live streaming would be consistent with Uganda’s constitutional principles on access to justice, the rule of law and good governance.
It said broadcasting the proceedings would also help curb speculation surrounding the case, improve public confidence in the judiciary and support accurate and responsible reporting by the media. In its petition, the ULS cited a previous criminal case, Uganda v. Christopher Onyum (Criminal Case No. 132 of 2026), whose proceedings were live streamed through Judiciary platforms. The Society urged the court to adopt a similar arrangement for the Besigye case “as soon as possible.” The Law Society said it is awaiting the court’s response to its request-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
