Breaking News: Lawyer Eron Kiiza Beaten and Arrested at Court Martial

Updates by, Anastasios Gordon Sekandi, Tuesday, 07 January, 2025.

Chaos erupted at the General Court Martial on Tuesday when Eron Kiiza, a lawyer representing opposition figures Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale, was violently arrested following a confrontation with military police officers.

The altercation began when officers barred Kiiza from accessing the courtroom. Frustrated, Kiiza banged on the barricade, demanding entry. In response, Court Martial Chairperson Lt. Gen. Andrew Gutti ordered his arrest.

Kiiza was reportedly beaten as he was forcefully removed from the courtroom. In a dramatic turn, he managed to break free and joined Besigye and co-accused Abeid Lutale Kamulegeya in the dock. However, he was rearrested, subjected to further physical assault, and dragged back to the cells.

The incident unfolded amid mounting complaints from opposition figures about mistreatment by security forces at the court premises. Former Leader of Opposition Winnie Kiiza and activist Ingrid Turinawe reported harassment and intimidation by military personnel outside the court.

The escalating tension disrupted court proceedings, prompting an adjournment of 30 minutes. Some members of the Court Martial reportedly fled the scene as the situation spiraled out of control.

Supporters of Besigye condemned the incident, describing Kiiza’s arrest as an act of intimidation and accusing the court martial of acting as a “kangaroo court.” Protesters declared, “Enough is enough,” decrying the state of justice in Uganda and claiming the country is “bleeding.”

The chaotic scenes have reignited debates about the independence of Uganda’s judiciary and the treatment of opposition members by security forces.

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