The High Court in Kampala has postponed a ruling on a bail application by political activist and four-time presidential candidate Dr Kizza Besigye, extending uncertainty in a politically sensitive treason case that has drawn sustained criticism from his supporters.
The ruling, which had been expected at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, was deferred to December 29 after trial judge Emmanuel Baguma issued a late directive shortly after 4 p.m., according to a statement posted on social media by Winnie Byanyima, Dr Besigye’s wife.
Byanyima said no explanation was given by court for the delay, describing the decision as “total disrespect and insensitivity.”
Besigye’s lawyers had earlier told court they were seeking both bail and orders staying the criminal trial pending the determination of a constitutional petition challenging the propriety of the proceedings.
The defence has argued that continuing with the trial before the constitutional issues are resolved would prejudice the accused.
Besigye, a four-time presidential challenger and long-time critic of President Yoweri Museveni’s government, is jointly charged with treason alongside Hajj Obeid Lutale.
Prosecutors allege the accused engaged in activities intended to undermine the state, charges the defence rejects as politically motivated.
Besigye remains remanded at Luzira prison after previous bail applications were denied.
The postponement adds to a series of procedural disputes in the case, which has already seen clashes over jurisdiction, judicial conduct and the pace of proceedings.
The court is now expected to communicate its decision on bail and related applications on Dec. 29, unless further directions are issued.