Uganda Court Gives Gen. Muhoozi One Week to Respond to Besigye Petition Over Alleged Death Threats
KAMPALA, Uganda — The High Court in Kampala has ordered Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, to file his defence within seven days in a case arising from alleged death threats directed at opposition veteran Kizza Besigye.
The directive was issued by Justice Emmanuel Baguma during proceedings at the Civil Division of the High Court on Thursday, June 11, 2026. The court set June 18 as the deadline for Gen. Muhoozi to submit his response to the petition.
“The respondent (Gen. Muhoozi), take note, is given one week to file a reply by June 18,” Justice Baguma ruled.
The petition was filed following a series of controversial social media posts allegedly made by Gen. Muhoozi concerning Dr. Besigye. Lawyers representing the opposition figure argue that the statements amounted to threats and infringed upon constitutional protections related to personal security, dignity, and fundamental rights.
The case has attracted significant public interest, with political analysts and civil society organizations closely monitoring the proceedings. Many observers view the petition as an important test of accountability for senior public officials and a measure of the boundaries of political expression by military leaders.
Dr. Besigye, a longtime critic of Yoweri Museveni and a former presidential candidate, has repeatedly accused state institutions of intimidation and harassment due to his political activities.
Meanwhile, Gen. Muhoozi, who is also President Museveni’s son, has emerged as one of Uganda’s most influential political and military figures. His social media activity has frequently generated debate over comments touching on national politics, security matters, and regional affairs.
The matter is expected to return to court after the defence files its response next week, paving the way for further hearings in a case that could have broader implications for political discourse and constitutional rights in Uganda.
