New Media Restrictions Imposed as Besigye Trial Returns to Court

Updated by Faith Barbara N Ruhinda at 1209 EAT on Wednesday 29 July 2026

The Judiciary has introduced stricter guidelines on media coverage and public access to the trial of Col Dr Kizza Besigye, Hajji Obeid Lutale, and Capt Denis Oola at the Criminal Division of the High Court.

The Judiciary said the measures are aimed at enhancing security while ensuring the accused persons’ right to a fair and public hearing is protected.

The revised directives, contained in a statement issued on Tuesday ahead of the trial’s resumption, form part of a broader security arrangement for the high-profile proceedings.

Under the new guidelines, access to the courtroom will be restricted to designated judicial and non-judicial court staff, the accused persons, prosecution and defence lawyers, accredited journalists, and members of the public admitted based on available seating capacity.

The Judiciary said all journalists seeking to cover the trial must obtain prior accreditation through its Public Relations Office.

“All journalists intending to cover the trial should secure prior accreditation from the Judiciary’s Public Relations Officer,” the statement said.

The Judiciary added that “the Court reserves the right to limit the number of court reporters in the courtroom depending on the space available.”

It further directed that all media equipment, including cameras, audio recorders, laptops and other electronic devices, must undergo mandatory security screening before being allowed into the court premises.

Any requests for live broadcast of the proceedings must first be submitted to the Public Relations Office for consideration and approval.

The new guidelines also restrict photography and videography inside the courtroom. Images of the trial judge and witnesses may not be captured without prior authorisation from the court.

In addition, the Judiciary has prohibited the use of communication devices, including mobile phones, tablets and other smart devices, inside the courtroom while proceedings are ongoing.

The Judiciary said the measures are intended to balance public access to the proceedings with the need to protect the integrity, security and orderly conduct of the trial.

-Observer

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