Grapevine

Besigye trial: Lawyers challenge evidence in incitement case

A case in which opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye and activist Samuel Mukaaku are facing trial over inciting violence resumed on Friday with a new twist.

On October 4, defence lawyers challenged the evidence against Besigye and Mukaaku- which was presented by Detective Sergeant Steven Oryema, who previously testified about finding provocative placards and a megaphone in the vehicle occupied by the two during their arrest.

The placards had phrases like "Time Up, Time Out" and "Stop Stupid Birthdays", which prosecution claims were used to incite protests.

Defense lawyers led by Erias Lukwago objected Oryema's evidence, reasoning that it was not disclosed earlier and that Oryema was not listed among the elven witnesses on record.

“Your worship, prosecution has just ambushed us with this testimony which is an abuse of the court process. We seek to have it struck out,” Lukwago said.