Kampala, Uganda – Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo has directed an immediate investigation into the chaotic scenes that unfolded at the Nakawa Chief Magistrates Court on Friday, where several people were injured during a violent altercation preceding the hearing of a treason case involving opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and two co-accused.
In a strongly worded statement issued by the Judiciary’s Public Relations and Communications Registry, Justice Owiny-Dollo condemned the violence as “uncalled for and unacceptable,” and emphasized that courts must remain sanctuaries of justice, order, and respect.
“Courts are temples of justice and must remain places of order, impartiality, and respect. Any form of violence within Court precincts will not be tolerated,” the Chief Justice said.
According to eyewitness accounts, the violence erupted when Ingrid Turinawe, a prominent opposition figure, was seen recording videos within the courtroom.
A man suspected to be an undercover security operative reportedly grabbed her phone and began assaulting people, sparking a physical altercation between supporters of Besigye and suspected security operatives.
One of the victims, Paul Kisule, a mobilizer for the People’s Front for Transition (PFT), was seen bleeding from the mouth as he was rushed out of court for medical attention.
Earlier in the week, two individuals — including Kira Division Councillor Umar Katongole — were arrested at the court premises shortly after Besigye’s court session and taken away in an unmarked van, commonly referred to as a “drone.” Both were reportedly released later that night bearing injuries.
The Judiciary reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding all court users, judicial officers, litigants, observers, and the general public, and vowed that those behind the violence would be held accountable in accordance with the law.
“The Chief Justice noted that ensuring the safety and proper functioning of Courts is essential to upholding justice and maintaining public trust in due process,” the statement read.
Justice Owiny-Dollo also urged the public and all court users to respect the authority of the judiciary and to support its mandate to dispense justice fairly, independently, and without intimidation.
Dr. Kizza Besigye is jointly charged with his personal assistant Obeid Lutale and UPDF officer Captain Denis Oola in a high-profile treason case.
The trio’s legal team filed a second bail application on April 22, 2025, after Justice Rosette Kania dismissed an earlier request on April 11, citing the gravity of the charges and potential interference with investigations.
The Judiciary’s investigation into the Nakawa court incident is expected to commence immediately.
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