Kampala, Uganda – People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) has issued a stern warning to the judiciary, threatening to storm and camp at the office of the Principal Judge if a date is not set for the bail hearing of opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused, Hajj Obeid Lutale.
The warning comes days after a production warrant was reportedly not signed by Justice Emmanuel Baguma, resulting in the failure by prison authorities to present the duo in the High Court last week.
Dr. Besigye and Hajj Lutale have been in detention since November 2024, facing charges of treason.
Addressing journalists at PFF headquarters in Kampala, Michael Kabaziguruka, the party’s acting Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, condemned the continued delay in the legal process, calling it a violation of rights and a political tactic.
“If a hearing date is not set soon, we are ready to storm and camp at the Principal Judge’s office,” Kabaziguruka declared.
“Justice delayed is justice denied. The state must stop frustrating the bail process of Dr. Besigye and Hajj Lutale.”
In a related development, Kabaziguruka also announced the opening of PFF’s internal electoral calendar ahead of the 2026 General Elections.
Picking and returning of expression of interest forms will close on July 30, 2025.
From August 4 to 15, the party will conduct an internal selection process to identify flagbearers across various positions.
Kabaziguruka emphasized that the selection process will be transparent, merit-based, and reflective of the party’s values of democracy and accountability.
The latest statements from PFF come amid growing concerns over the handling of politically sensitive cases by Uganda’s judiciary. Dr. Besigye, a four-time presidential contender and veteran opposition leader, has long accused the state of using legal means to intimidate dissenting voices.
His continued detention without trial has sparked criticism from human rights groups, opposition figures, and regional observers.
As the 2026 elections draw closer, the PFF’s dual focus on internal party strengthening and external pressure for justice highlights its strategy to remain a formidable voice in Uganda’s political opposition.
Also read: Minister Persis Namuganza Accused of Assaulting Returning Officer
