President Yoweri Museveni, in his national address delivered on July 4, 2026, cited the prolonged detention of opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye as an example of what he described as impunity within Uganda’s legal system. Besigye, who was arrested on November 17, 2024, has remained on treason charges for nearly two years. The President questioned why the case had not proceeded to trial, arguing that the courtroom is the proper place for evidence to be presented and for innocence or guilt to be determined.
Museveni challenged Besigye’s reputation as a democrat and human rights advocate, asking why an individual claiming innocence would avoid court proceedings instead of using them to contest the allegations. He suggested that if claims of political persecution were valid, the judicial process would provide an opportunity to expose them. According to the President, delaying court proceedings only prolongs uncertainty and weakens public confidence in the justice system.
The President also questioned the role of the judiciary, asking why an accused person could refuse or delay trial for such an extended period. He argued that prolonged legal delays encourage impunity by preventing timely accountability. Museveni warned that when citizens lose trust in courts and law enforcement agencies, they may resort to mob justice and other forms of vigilante action, threatening law and order.
Linking Besigye’s case to broader national concerns, Museveni emphasized that delayed trials in high-profile cases undermine respect for legal institutions and erode public trust. He defended the government’s security measures, stating that taking suspects through formal court processes demonstrates a commitment to due process rather than extrajudicial actions. He also called on religious, cultural, and community leaders to consistently condemn violence and support respect for the rule of law.
In conclusion, Museveni reiterated his call for legal reforms to prevent abuse of court procedures while protecting the rights of accused persons. He maintained that the courts remain the proper forum for establishing the truth and delivering justice, urging Ugandans to await the outcomes of ongoing cases, including Dr. Kizza Besigye’s. According to the President, strengthening the rule of law and ensuring timely trials are essential for maintaining public confidence, accountability, and national stability.
