By Dean Lubowa Saava
TV10Ganomazima Investigative Desk
In an exclusive report, this investigative publication of TV10Ganomazima reveals that Justice Emmanuel Baguma, the deputy head of the High Court’s Criminal Division, has handed over one of the case files belonging to opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and his associate, Hajji Obed Lutale Kamulegeya.
According to reliable sources told TV10Ganomazima, that Justice Baguma transferred Besigye’s file, which involves a revision application challenging the decision of Nakawa Chief Magistrate Christine Nantege, to Justice David Matovu, the head of the Division Court. The file was previously allocated to Justice Issa Sserukuma before Justice Baguma instructed that all files be submitted to him.
Besigye’s lawyers claim that Justice Baguma now has two files related to their client. One file concerns a mandatory bail application, citing the accused’s prolonged detention without trial exceeding six months. The second file pertains to a second bail application after Justice Rosette Comfort Kania denied them bail despite meeting all requirements.
Despite threats from Besigye’s lawyers, led by Senior Counsel Martha Karua, and opposition supporters to protest at Principal Judge Dr. Flavian Zeija’s chambers demanding a hearing date, Justice Baguma remains resolute in not being forced to set a date.
Last week, Justice Matovu assured Besigye’s lawyers that their matters would be scheduled for hearing by Wednesday, July 23, considering the court’s current mourning period following the passing of Justice George Wilson Kanyeihamba.
It’s worth noting that Justice Baguma had previously assured Besigye’s lawyers that he wouldn’t be pressured into fixing a hearing date, stating that he would schedule it at his convenience.
This stance has sparked frustration from Kampala Lord Mayor Ssalongo Erias Lukwago, who questioned what had changed in his longtime friend’s approach.
Pressure Mounts on Justice Baguma Over Besigye’s Files
Pressure is building on Justice Emmanuel Baguma, the deputy head of the High Court’s Criminal Division, to clarify his stance on opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye’s case. Justice Baguma has been forced to surrender one of Besigye’s files to his boss, Justice David Matovu, amid allegations of deliberately delaying the scheduling of Besigye’s bail applications and trial.
Key Developments:
File Surrender: Justice Baguma handed over Besigye’s file, which involves a revision application challenging the decision of Nakawa Chief Magistrate Christine Nantege, to Justice Matovu for handling or allocation to another judge.
Bail Applications: Besigye’s lawyers, led by Senior Counsel Martha Karua and Erias Lukwago, claim that Justice Baguma has assured them he won’t schedule the bail applications, sparking concerns about judicial impartiality and efficiency.
Treason Charges: Besigye and his co-accused, Hajji Obed Lutale, have been in detention for over 240 days, fueling concerns about the judiciary’s handling of the case and potential judicial harassment.
Judiciary’s Response: Judiciary spokesperson Judge Ireemye Mawanda maintains that the institution bears no intention to frustrate justice, promising that the matter will be scheduled once the ongoing session of criminal matters is done.
Implications: The controversy surrounding Justice Baguma’s handling of Besigye’s case raises questions about the judiciary’s independence, fairness, and efficiency. The opposition and civil society groups are closely watching the developments, with some accusing the judiciary of judicial harassment and bias.
