Museveni Defends Continued Detention of Besigye, Calls for Speedy Trial.

By Skika Reporter.

President Yoweri Museveni has defended the continued detention of opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye, saying the focus should be on ensuring a speedy trial rather than granting bail.

In a televised national address on Saturday, Museveni questioned the handling of Besigye’s court case, arguing that repeated legal applications had delayed the commencement of the substantive trial.

The President said an accused person who believes they are innocent should seek a quick hearing to allow the court to examine the evidence and determine the case.

Museveni also criticized what he described as the generous granting of bail by courts in some cases, maintaining that judicial processes should prioritize the timely conclusion of criminal proceedings.

His remarks come amid ongoing calls by the Uganda Law Society, religious leaders and human rights organizations for Besigye’s release on bail, with the groups expressing concern over his continued detention and urging respect for constitutional rights and due process.

The President questioned why critics of the government had not similarly condemned acts of violence and threats allegedly made by some opposition supporters, arguing that all forms of lawlessness should be addressed equally.

Museveni defended the conduct of Uganda’s security agencies, saying they had exercised restraint while responding to political demonstrations and other incidents.

He rejected comparisons between the current security situation and past periods of political violence in Uganda, arguing that suspects today are prosecuted through the courts rather than subjected to extrajudicial actions.

The President also defended the actions of the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, saying criticism should take into account what he described as provocations faced by security forces.

On media coverage, Museveni said Uganda’s media should promote patriotism and avoid reporting that could negatively affect the country’s image and economy, particularly in sectors such as tourism.

Dr. Besigye’s legal team has maintained that the applications filed before court are intended to safeguard his constitutional rights and ensure a fair trial. Human rights organizations and the Uganda Law Society have continued to call for his release on bail and for adherence to due process.

The case remains before the courts