A Ugandan judge denied bail Friday to veteran opposition leader Kizza Besigye, jailed nearly nine months on treason charges.
Besigye’s detention has sparked alarm among critics, including opposition figure Bobi Wine and rights groups, fearing a crackdown ahead of next year’s national election.
President Yoweri Museveni, 80, seeks re-election amid accusations of silencing political rivals, though the government denies targeting opposition, insisting detainees have committed crimes.
Once Museveni’s personal physician and ally, Besigye has challenged the president in four elections but has yet to confirm if he will run again.
Besigye was forcibly returned from Kenya last November and first faced charges in a military tribunal before his case moved to civilian court.
His lawyers argued for automatic bail after more than 180 days in detention without trial, citing Ugandan law.
Judge Emmanuel Baguma ruled that the 180-day bail limit began only when Besigye was remanded to civilian court on February 21, leaving him 12 days short.
The judge’s decision extends Besigye’s detention despite growing fears that his imprisonment aims to weaken the opposition ahead of critical polls.
As Uganda braces for elections, Besigye’s case symbolizes the tense political landscape and struggles faced by dissenting voices under Museveni’s long rule.
Observers warn the unfolding legal battle risks deepening divisions and undermining democratic processes in Uganda’s charged political arena.
