Lawyer Eron Kiiza Sentenced to Nine Months by Military Court in Controversial Trial

By : Bwire Jonathan ; The crown media East Africa

In a swift and highly controversial decision, the General Court Martial chaired by Brigadier Robert Freeman Mugabe sentenced Eron Kiiza, a leading human rights lawyer, to nine months in prison on Monday. The proceedings, which reportedly lasted less than two minutes, denied Kiiza the opportunity to defend himself or hear the charges against him.

Kiiza, best known for representing opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, was taken into custody during a tense courtroom session in Kampala. The incident occurred as Kiiza attempted to join the defense team for Besigye and his aide, Obeid Lutale, who are accused of security-related offenses, including illegal possession of firearms.

Witnesses claim that a soldier barred Kiiza from accessing the defense bench, leading to a heated exchange. Moments later, Kiiza was forcibly detained, placed in the dock alongside his clients, and summarily sentenced.

Legal Fraternity Outraged

The abrupt sentencing has sparked outrage within Uganda’s legal community. Erias Lukwago, a fellow defense lawyer, condemned the court’s actions, stating, “This is not how justice is served. The court has shown utter disregard for due process and legal principles.”

The Uganda Law Society has yet to issue an official statement, but prominent lawyers and human rights advocates have already raised alarms about the implications of this decision. Critics argue that such actions erode the independence of the judiciary and undermine the rule of law in Uganda.

A Pattern of Suppression?

This latest development adds to a growing list of incidents involving the General Court Martial and opposition figures. Analysts say the case highlights increasing efforts to stifle dissent through judicial means. Dr. Besigye, a staunch critic of the government, has faced numerous legal battles over the years, with his supporters often claiming political motives behind the charges.

International Attention

Human rights organizations are expected to weigh in on the case, which they view as part of a broader crackdown on lawyers and activists defending opposition voices. The speed and nature of Kiiza’s sentencing have drawn parallels to similar cases in Uganda’s recent history, where politically charged trials often bypass established legal norms.

As calls for justice mount, the spotlight is firmly on Uganda’s judiciary. For now, Eron Kiiza’s sudden imprisonment raises troubling questions about the state of legal rights and freedoms in the country.

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