"In The Eyes Of The People, Dr Kizza Besigye Is Innocent, Gov't Should Genuinely Reveal The Public His True Crime" Says Maj Gen Kahinda Otafiire

The Minister of Internal Affairs, Maj Gen Kahinda Otafiire, has stirred debate with his recent comments about veteran opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye. Speaking at the inaugural Sam Njuba Memorial Lecture organized by the Uganda Law Society (ULS), Otafiire declared that Besigye remains “innocent in the court of public opinion.”

Otafiire’s remarks appeared to contradict the government’s long-standing position on Besigye, who has faced serious charges in Uganda over the past year. The minister argued that until the government provides clear evidence, the public cannot be expected to judge Besigye guilty.

“Besigye should be tried in court and condemned or absolved. We don’t know what he did. For us, in the court of public opinion, he’s innocent,” Otafiire said, emphasizing the need for a fair process.

The minister also stressed that Besigye, a four-time challenger to President Yoweri Museveni, deserves a fair and transparent trial. He suggested that public perception should not be influenced by political rhetoric or ongoing debates.

Besigye was arrested on November 16, 2024, in Nairobi, Kenya, alongside his political ally Hajj Obeid Lutale. They were attending a book launch by former Kenyan Justice Minister Martha Karua when authorities detained them. Both were transported to Uganda and charged before the General Court Martial with illegal possession of firearms and treachery, allegedly committed in Greece, Switzerland, and Nairobi.

Both Besigye and Lutale denied the charges. On January 31, 2025, the Supreme Court ruled that civilians cannot be tried in military courts, ordering that their cases be moved to civilian courts. Subsequently, the case was transferred to Nakawa Chief Magistrates Court and later committed to the High Court on treason charges.

Their defence, led by Martha Karua and Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, sought bail, citing that the accused had spent over 180 days without committal, which would qualify them for mandatory bail. However, Justice Emmanuel Baguma dismissed the application, prompting accusations of bias and leading the accused to vow not to return until the judge recused himself.

Otafiire reiterated that until the government publicly presents conclusive evidence of Besigye’s crimes, the former presidential candidate remains innocent in the eyes of Ugandans. “Besigye remains innocent in the court of public opinion until the government genuinely tells the public his true crime,” he said.

The minister’s comments are likely to reignite discussions over Besigye’s prolonged detention, the role of military courts in civilian cases, and the fairness of Uganda’s justice system. Many legal experts say the situation highlights the tension between public perception and formal legal processes.

As the debate continues, Otafiire’s remarks have drawn attention to the importance of transparency, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ rights, especially in politically sensitive cases. The country now waits to see how the government will respond to the call for evidence and clarity regarding Besigye’s charges.ADVERTISE WITH UGANDA NEWS WEBSITES ASSOCIATION

With Us Your Business, School, Company, Or Organisation Today – Reach More People, Grow Faster, And Make A Lasting Impact!

Are You A Politician & Want Your Campaign Message To Reach Millions Of Ugandans?? Contact Uganda News Websites Association Today Call 0773188094