Tensions escalated at the General Court Martial in Makindye, a suburb of Kampala, Uganda’s capital, when city lawyer Eron Kiiza, who represents political activist Dr. Col. Warren Kizza Besigye, was taken into custody.
The incident unfolded during a court session when Kiiza was denied entry to the bar area where fellow defense attorneys were gathered.
In a fit of frustration, the lawyer vocally insisted on his right to enter, exclaiming, “Move aside, I must continue; I am a lawyer!” His outburst created a significant disturbance in the courtroom.
He was subsequently arrested in a rough manner and taken to an undisclosed location. The Chairman of the Court Martial, Brig. Gen. Freeman Mugabe, stated that Kiiza was apprehended due to allegations of misconduct. Kiiza, along with a team of lawyers led by former Kenyan Justice Minister Martha Karua, is representing Col. Besigye and Obedi Lutale, who are charged with unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
The two were detained in Kenya, where they had reportedly attended Martha Karua’s book launch in Kisumu.
However, the government alleges that their presence was intended to incite disruption.
Following Kiiza’s arrest, he received a nine-month prison sentence on charges of contempt of court.
In response, Besigye’s legal team protested the sentencing of their colleague and expressed their refusal to accept it, which court denied.
He was sent to Kitalya prison.
