The Judiciary has announced revised security and media access guidelines ahead of the hearing of the high-profile case involving Dr. Kizza Besigye, Hajji Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola at the Criminal Division of the High Court.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Judiciary Public Relations Officer Ereemye James and Principal Communications Officer Sheila Wamboga said the measures are part of a broader security plan aimed at ensuring an orderly, secure and efficient trial while safeguarding the constitutional right to a fair and public hearing.
Under the new guidelines, access to the courtroom will be limited to 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 has directed all journalists intending to cover the proceedings to obtain prior accreditation through the Judiciary’s Public Relations Office. It also noted that the number of court reporters allowed into the courtroom may be limited depending on the available space.
Journalists will be required to submit cameras, audio recorders, laptops and other electronic equipment for security screening before entering the courtroom.
The guidelines further provide that requests for live broadcasting of the proceedings will be considered on a case-by-case basis, while photography and videography inside the courtroom will be restricted. Images of the trial judge and witnesses may only be taken with prior authorization from the court.
The Judiciary has also prohibited the use of communication devices, including mobile phones, tablets and other smart devices, inside the courtroom during the proceedings.
According to the Judiciary, the revised measures are intended to maintain security, ensure orderly court proceedings and preserve public access to the hearing while protecting the integrity of the judicial process and upholding the constitutional principle of open justice.
