Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye denied bail as treason trial drags on

A Ugandan judge has denied bail to veteran opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who has spent nearly nine months in detention on treason charges.

The refusal comes despite arguments from Besigye’s legal team that he should be released, as he has been held for more than 180 days without trial.

Judge Emmanuel Baguma ruled that the 180-day period, which requires automatic bail if exceeded, only began when Besigye was formally remanded in a civilian court on February 21.

Because this date falls less than 180 days ago, the judge said Besigye did not yet qualify for bail.

Besigye, a longtime opponent of President Yoweri Museveni, denies all allegations against him.

He was forcefully returned to Uganda from Kenya in November last year and initially faced charges in a military tribunal before the case moved to a civilian court.

The detention of Besigye has drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures, including leader Bobi Wine, and various rights groups.

They see the ongoing legal action as part of a wider crackdown on dissent ahead of Uganda’s national elections scheduled for early next year, where President Museveni, now 80 years old, is seeking re-election.

The government, however, rejects claims that it is targeting opposition politicians. Officials insist that all detained individuals are accused of genuine criminal offences.

Besigye has previously contested four presidential elections against Museveni but has never won. He has not confirmed whether he will run in the upcoming vote.