By Ben Musanje
The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has petitioned the High Court’s Criminal Division to allow live streaming of the criminal trial involving opposition figure Dr. Kiiza Kifefe Besigye and his co-accused, arguing that the move would enhance judicial transparency and safeguard the public’s right to information.
In a letter dated July 17, 2026, addressed to the Deputy Registrar of the Criminal Division, Samuel Twakyire, the ULS requested that proceedings in High Court Criminal Session Case No. 335 of 2025: Uganda vs Dr. Kiiza Kifefe Besigye, Hajji Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola be broadcast through Judiciary platforms.
The Society said its request follows complaints alleging potential judicial misconduct in the handling of the case, as well as reports from journalists claiming they have been denied access to cover the proceedings before trial judge Emmanuel Baguma.
ULS President Isaac K. Ssemakadde, SC, said limiting media and public access to the trial undermines the principles of open justice and accountability.
“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,” Ssemakadde said in the petition.
The legal body cited the Judiciary’s decision to live stream proceedings in Criminal Case No. 132 of 2026: Uganda vs Christopher Onyum as a precedent, arguing that similar arrangements should be extended to the Besigye case.
According to the ULS, live streaming would reinforce Uganda’s constitutional commitments to the rule of law, access to justice and good governance. The Society also argued that broadcasting the proceedings would help counter speculation surrounding the trial, improve public confidence in the Judiciary and facilitate accurate media reporting.
The petition comes amid heightened public interest in the case involving Besigye, Lutale and Oola, with civil society groups and sections of the public closely following developments.
The Uganda Law Society said it is awaiting the High Court’s response to its request. The petition was signed by ULS Vice President Asiimwe Anthony on behalf of the Society. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
