Kizza Besigye, a prominent opposition leader in Uganda, is facing a military trial despite a recent Supreme Court ruling that declared it unconstitutional for civilians to be tried in military courts. The ruling has been met with strong condemnation from President Yoweri Museveni, who asserted that Uganda will not abandon military courts, citing the need for stability in the nation. Besigye, who has been a target of the government for over 25 years, faces serious treason charges, which his wife, Winnie Byanyima, has labeled a 'sham.'
Army spokesman Chris Magezi has stated that Besigye will not be released until he faces the consequences of martial law. This situation has drawn criticism from various opposition figures, who argue that the military's defiance of the Supreme Court ruling represents a significant breakdown of the rule of law in Uganda. Additionally, the United Nations has expressed concern regarding the ongoing suppression of opposition voices as the country approaches the January 2026 presidential election [4f599dd4].