Uganda Police Release Activists Detained Over Lawyer’s Arrest Protest
Ugandan police have released seven activists, including prominent human rights lawyer Agather Atuhaire, who were detained on Thursday after protesting the imprisonment of another lawyer during a controversial trial.
The activists staged a demonstration in Kampala, marching toward the high court to protest the ongoing military trial of veteran opposition figure Kizza Besigye. Besigye, a retired army colonel and long-time government critic, was arrested in Kenya last year and faces charges of possessing weapons and other offences. His trial has drawn significant international criticism.
During a recent hearing, one of Besigye’s lawyers was detained and jailed, prompting the protests. Agather Atuhaire, wearing a t-shirt that read “Stop abuse of power,” joined other activists in what police described as an “illegal demonstration.”
Patrick Onyango, the city police spokesperson, confirmed the group was initially detained at Kampala’s Central Police Station on charges of “being a common nuisance.” They were later released on bail after being charged with causing a disturbance to traffic and public nuisance.
Among those detained was Praise Aloikin Opoloje, known for a semi-naked protest in September during a rally against corruption. Several of the released activists have previously faced charges for participating in anti-government demonstrations inspired by youth-led protests in Kenya last year.
The incident highlights growing tensions surrounding Besigye’s trial and broader concerns over the Ugandan government’s handling of dissent.
