Ugandan Opposition Figure Denied Bail Amid Election Tensions

Kizza Besigye, a Ugandan opposition figure, has been denied bail after nearly nine months in jail facing treason charges. The refusal has heightened concerns among critics about potential government crackdowns ahead of the national election, where President Museveni seeks re-election. His detention period fell short of automatic bail eligibility.

In a decision that has drawn significant concern, a Ugandan judge denied bail to Kizza Besigye, an opposition stalwart charged with treason. The refusal comes after Besigye spent nine months in detention, with critics viewing these actions as an indication of a crackdown preceding the upcoming national elections.

Despite his past as an ally to President Yoweri Museveni, Besigye has constantly been under scrutiny, losing four electoral bids against the President. His prolonged detention without trial stokes fears of foul play among opposition leaders including Bobi Wine, reiterating the call for justice and fair play.

Legally, Besigye's lawyers hoped for an automatic release, having spent over 180 days in custody. However, the court ruled that the countdown began only in February, meaning Besigye remains 12 days away from potential bail eligibility, adding further tension in the politically charged environment.

(With inputs from agencies.)