Opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye has been rushed to hospital after collapsing during a court session at the High Court in Kampala, forcing proceedings in his trial to be suspended.
The incident happened on Wednesday as the trial of Besigye, Hajji Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya and Capt Denis Oola resumed before the Criminal Division of the High Court.
According to reports from court, Besigye collapsed during proceedings and was immediately attended to before being taken away for medical attention.
The circumstances surrounding his medical condition have not yet been independently confirmed, but his supporters and opposition party, the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), said the former presidential candidate collapsed while protesting what they described as unfair treatment in court.
The collapse led to a temporary suspension of the hearing as court officials and security personnel responded to the situation.
Besigye was later taken from the court premises as tension rose outside court after prison officers restricted access to him by some individuals, including his personal physician, Dr Olive Kobusingye.
His supporters have questioned why his personal doctor was not allowed immediate access, while authorities have not yet issued a detailed explanation regarding the medical arrangements during the court session.
The incident occurred on the same day state-appointed lawyers made their first appearance to represent Besigye and his co-accused.
Lawyers Julius Serwambala and Sarah Awere appeared in court to represent Besigye, Lutale and Capt Oola after the state assigned them to the case.
The move followed disagreements over legal representation, with Besigye previously insisting on being represented by his preferred lawyers.
The proceedings are taking place under heightened security following new access restrictions introduced by the Judiciary for the high-profile trial.
Judiciary recently issued guidelines limiting courtroom access to authorised officials, accredited journalists, lawyers, the accused persons and members of the public depending on available space.
The measures include screening of electronic devices and restrictions on photography and recording inside the courtroom.
Judiciary said the guidelines are intended to maintain security and ensure the trial proceeds in an orderly manner while protecting the right to a fair hearing.
Dr Kizza Besigye, a long-time opposition leader and former presidential candidate, is facing charges alongside Hajji Obeid Lutale and Capt Denis Oola.
The accused have denied the allegations against them and have raised concerns about aspects of the proceedings.
The case has attracted widespread public attention, with supporters calling for transparency while authorities maintain that the judicial process must be allowed to continue.
Following Wednesday’s incident, attention is now focused on Besigye’s health condition, access to medical care, and when the court proceedings will resume.
