Fresh concerns have emerged in the treason case involving opposition figure Kizza Besigye and his co-accused, Obeid Lutale, after defense lawyers reportedly faced obstacles while attempting to access their clients at Luzira Prison.
According to reports on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, members of the defense team led by Martha Karua and Erias Lukwago were prevented from entering Luzira Prison with laptops, flash drives, and evidence files they said were critical for preparing the case ahead of the trial proceedings.
The lawyers argue that the materials are necessary to review more than 900 pages of prosecution documents and approximately 11 hours of recorded evidence before the defense phase begins on June 11, 2026.
The development has raised questions about compliance with a recent High Court directive that ordered prison authorities to facilitate adequate access between the accused persons and their legal team, including extended consultation hours and weekend meetings to ensure proper trial preparation.
Besigye and Lutale are facing treason charges linked to allegations of plotting to overthrow the government. Both remain on remand at Luzira Prison as the case progresses.
A video circulating online appears to capture part of the standoff inside the prison facility. The footage, recorded from a low angle, shows individuals standing within the premises while the lawyers reportedly sought permission to consult their clients using the materials they had brought.
The incident is likely to intensify scrutiny over whether the defense team is being granted the access necessary to adequately prepare for one of Uganda’s most closely watched political trials
