Besigye case: State has two weeks to conclude investigations

Jun 29, 2016

Besigye case: State has two weeks to conclude investigations

Nakawa Chief Magistrate's court has given the state two weeks to conclude investigations in the case where jailed former presidential candidate Kizza Besigye is charged with treason.

"The accused is entitled to a speedy trial and a delay would lead to a violation of his rights. This must be done so that justice is seen to be done," the Chief Magistrate James Ereemye said.
   
This followed submissions by Besigye who told court that he was concerned by the delay to try him, which he said was unfair.

"For such big cases, investigations should be done first before a person is arrested because there has always been fabrication of evidence by prosecution," Besigye asserted.  

The presiding magistrate also disclosed that he will next week visit Besigye and other inmates in Luzira prison where he is currently detained. This is after Besigye complained that his right to communication is being violated in prison.

Prosecution alleges that between February 18 and May 11, Besigye, in various places in Wakiso and Kampala districts, incited the people to overthrow the Government.

He is also accused of declaring himself as president after claiming to have won the February 18 presidential elections.

Prosecution also alleges that Besigye incited the public to defy lawful authority. Besigye insists that he was the rightful winner of the Febraury 18 polls, although the Electoral Commission declared Yoweri Museveni as the winner and the Supreme Court upheld the official result.

The case was adjourned to July 13, when Besigye is expected to be committed to High Court for trial.

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