Humanist

Twenty three advocates, members of the Uganda Law Society, supporters of the Radical New Bar agenda, in their written communique dated 19th February 2025, put the humanity of the Judiciary on the dock.

In no uncertain terms, the 23 advocates took issue with the conduct of the presiding judge, who “observed that Dr. Kizza Besigye looked unwell,” and on which basis the judge ruled Dr. Besigye “should immediately be returned to prison, lest he faint in Court.”

The 23 advocates expressed their befuddlement with the presiding judge’s decision and questioned:

“Was the court not concerned that Dr. Besigye could suffer much worse in prison than merely fainting?

Given his visibly frail condition, why was Dr. Besigye’s right to health not prioritized with an order for immediate medical attention?”

Example precedents that the 23 advocates sited, during which they contend the judiciary’s actions were devoid of compassion, include the handling of the high profile cases involving:

• World famous novelist, lawyer and human rights activist Kakwenza Rukirabashaija
• One of their own, of the legal fraternity, late Bob Kasango, who was among high profile advocates during his lifetime.
• Late Joseph Musaazi Kifefe, brother to Dr. Besigye.
• Late Muhammed Ssegirinya, who was a Member of Parliament at the time of his death.

“The Courts, with few exceptions, are increasingly using denial of bail as political persecution,” the 23 advocates noted in their communique.

The communique titled: “Shocking conduct of Dr. Kizza Besigye’s Application for Freedom,” is available online on ULS spaces.

Profiled photo @ Advocate Lillian Drabo, one of the 23.