The Judiciary has announced revised security and media guidelines ahead of the hearing of the criminal case involving Dr. Kizza Besigye, Hajji Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola at the Criminal Division of the High Court.
In a news release issued on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, the Judiciary said the measures form part of a broader security plan aimed at ensuring orderly, secure and efficient court proceedings while safeguarding the constitutional right to a fair and public hearing.
Under the new guidelines, access to the courtroom will be restricted to select judicial and non-judicial court staff, the accused persons, state and defence lawyers, accredited journalists and members of the public admitted subject to the available space.
The Judiciary directed all journalists intending to cover the trial to obtain prior accreditation through its Public Relations Office. It also noted that the number of court reporters allowed into the courtroom may be limited depending on available seating space.
Media personnel will also be required to submit all equipment, including cameras, audio recorders, laptops and other electronic gadgets, for security screening each time they attend court.
According to the guidelines, any requests for live broadcasting of the proceedings must be submitted to the Judiciary’s Public Relations Office and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
The Judiciary further prohibited photography and videography inside the courtroom unless prior authorization is granted by the court, adding that images of the trial judge and witnesses will not be permitted without approval.
In addition, the use of communication devices such as mobile phones, tablets and other smart devices inside the courtroom has been banned.
The Judiciary said the revised measures are intended to maintain security, ensure orderly proceedings, preserve the integrity of the judicial process and uphold the constitutional principle of open justice.
