Retired Colonel Dr. Kiiza Besigye is slated to spend Valentine’s Day in court. This development comes after the court issued a production warrant for detained opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye to appear at the next hearing and explain his absence in the case against him for inciting violence.
In a letter dated February 11, 2025, addressed to the Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court, handwritten by Dr. Besigye, it said: “This is to inform you that I am currently indisposed and unable to attend court today.”
Click here to join our WhatsApp Group and Receive Daily News
Upon receiving the letter, Grade One Magistrate Winnie Nankya noted that Besigye’s refusal to attend court left her with no choice but to issue a production warrant and adjourn the case.
“This being a matter of personal liberty and considering that he wishes to be present on February 14, I want to ascertain the circumstances behind his refusal to attend today. In his absence, I am unable to proceed with the hearing,” Nankya stated.
Acting Officer in Charge of the Upper Prison, ASP Simon Peter Siima, informed the court that Besigye had declined to attend the session as previously adjourned.
Dr. Besigye, with his co-accused Samuel Mukaaku, face charges related to inciting masses in 2022 to protest the rising cost of living in Uganda at Kikuubo Shawurayako, Kampala.
Earlier on February 11, 2025, prosecution, led by Allan Mucunguzi, informed the court that a witness summoned for a hearing (in the incitement case) also failed to appear, attributing the delay to Besigye’s absence.
“In light of this, we request a production warrant as the prison authorities are better positioned to explain his absence, given that he is in their custody,” Mucunguzi told court.
Further, reports indicated that Besigye was supposed to appear in the army court on February 3 but failed to attend.
Also Read: Authorities Launch Investigations as Anthrax Kills Two in Kazo
