Justice Emmanuel Baguma of the High Court ruled that Besigye, 69, and his co-accused, aide Obeid Lutale, must first take plea before the court can consider any further bail applications. The decision keeps Besigye in custody at Luzira Prison, where he has been held for several months.
Besigye, a retired army colonel and medical doctor, appeared calm as he listened to the ruling. He is charged with treason linked to events in April 2025. Prosecutors allege he plotted to overthrow the government, an accusation he strongly denies, calling it politically motivated.
The court also dismissed an application seeking to halt the trial while a constitutional petition challenging the case is pending. Lawyers for Besigye had argued that proceeding without resolving constitutional questions would violate his rights.
The ruling follows repeated delays in the case and has attracted criticism from rights groups. The United Nations has previously described the repeated denial of bail as “seriously troubling” and raised concerns about whether legal safeguards are being respected.
Supporters gathered outside the court in Kampala, chanting in support of Besigye and accusing the judiciary of acting under political pressure.
Human rights organizations have also questioned the evidence presented by prosecutors and urged authorities to release Besigye or grant him bail. They argue that prolonged pretrial detention undermines confidence in the justice system.
Prison officers escorted Besigye back to Luzira Prison. He is expected to return to court for plea-taking at a later date.
The case has renewed debate about judicial independence in Uganda and the treatment of opposition figures, as the country faces continued political tension ahead of future elections.
