Besigye, Lukwago case to go on - magistrate

By Michael Odeng                                                     

Court has declined to drop charges against former Forum for Democratic Change Leader, Dr. Kizza Besigye and former Kampala Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago who are accused of being members of an outlawed activists group.

The two politicians are facing charges related to the activities of the outlawed 4GC (For God and My Country) and Activists for Change groups.

The duo appeared before Buganda Road court grade one magistrate, Julius Borore, for a ruling on an application against being detained for more than 48 hours stipulated in the law.  

Katumba asked court to refer the matter to the Constitutional Court for interpretation on whether violation of the accused persons’ constitutional rights prior to be produced in court nullifies the proceedings.

State prosecutor, Martin Rukundo, objected the application on grounds that the case being referred to constitutional court had already been determined and would therefore lead to abuse of court process.

The trial magistrate declined to refer the matter to the Constitutional Court on grounds that the question raised does not raise from the proceedings before court.

Prosecution alleges that Besigye, Lukwago and others still at large, on July 19, 2013 conducted themselves as members of the outlawed activist groups.

Borore extended the bail for the duo and adjourned the case to Wednesday for mention.