KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda’s opposition party, the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), has accused the government of undermining the legal defence of opposition figure Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale through what it describes as a coordinated crackdown on their legal representatives.
In a statement released on Monday, the party alleged that state authorities had taken actions aimed at weakening the defence team representing the two leaders.
The opposition group claimed that lawyer Erias Lukwago, described as one of the lead defence counsels, had been arrested by security operatives and was facing what it termed politically motivated treason-related charges.
PFF further alleged that senior Kenyan lawyer and Kenyan Martha Karua had been denied entry into Uganda upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport.
According to the party, Karua was expected to participate in the legal team representing Besigye and Lutale.
Claims Yet to Receive Official Response
The allegations were contained in a statement issued by PFF.
Government authorities and security agencies had not immediately issued a response to the claims.
The opposition party argued that the reported actions raised concerns about access to legal representation and adherence to due process.
PFF called on the legal fraternity, civil society organisations, and the international community to monitor developments surrounding the case.
Focus on the Rule of Law
The party maintained that legal practitioners should be allowed to carry out their professional duties without intimidation or interference.
It also expressed concern over what it described as restrictions affecting legal representation in politically sensitive cases.
