Written By | Peter Luzinda
Justice Baguma issued the order on Thursday during proceedings at the Civil Division of the High Court in Kampala, instructing Gen. Muhoozi to file his defence by June 18
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KAMPALA
Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has been given seven days by the High Court to respond to a case filed over alleged death threats directed at opposition leader Kizza Besigye.
Justice Baguma issued the order on Thursday during proceedings at the Civil Division of the High Court in Kampala, instructing Gen. Muhoozi to file his defence by June 18.
"The respondent (Gen. Muhoozi) is given one week to file a reply by June 18," the judge said.
The case was filed after Gen. Muhoozi allegedly made controversial remarks on social media concerning Dr. Besigye — comments which the opposition politician's lawyers say amounted to threats to his life and personal safety.
Besigye's legal team argues that the statements violated constitutional protections and were unbecoming of a serving military officer holding one of the country's highest security offices.
The court action has reignited public debate over the use of social media by senior government and military officials, particularly in politically sensitive matters involving opposition leaders.
Gen. Muhoozi, widely viewed as an influential political figure beyond his military role, has previously drawn criticism over comments posted online about political opponents, regional affairs and governance issues.
Dr. Besigye, a former physician to President Yoweri Museveni turned opposition challenger, has spent decades at the center of Uganda's political contestations and has frequently accused state agencies of political persecution.
The matter is expected to return to court after Gen. Muhoozi files his response next week.
