Veteran opposition political figure Dr Kizza Besigye has once again been denied bail with court ruling that he must first take a guilty plea on the charges facing him.
In a firm decision, the court also rejected an application to halt the criminal proceedings pending the hearing of a Constitutional petition challenging the case.
High Court Judge Emmanuel Baguma ordered that Dr Besigye and his aide, Hajji Obeid Lutale, must immediately take plea on treason charges, putting an end to the delays that have surrounded the matter.
Justice Baguma directed that plea-taking proceed without any further postponement, saying the court process must move forward.
Besigye and Lutale, who remain in custody, are facing treason-related charges that have sparked intense public and political debate. Supporters insist the case is politically motivated, while the state maintains the charges are lawful and must be answered in court.
Although bail was denied for now, the court noted that Dr Besigye is free to reapply after the plea-taking.
The ruling marks a major turning point in the high-profile case, as plea-taking is expected to open the door for full trial proceedings in the coming days.
