KAMPALA, Uganda – Retired Col. and former presidential candidate Dr. Kizza Besigye, 70, was rushed to hospital on Wednesday after collapsing during court proceedings, forcing the immediate suspension of his treason trial.

The veteran opposition leader fainted while appearing before the court. Judicial officials halted the session as medical personnel moved in to attend to him. The court has since suspended the hearing until further notice as the public awaits updates on Dr. Besigye’s condition.

According to accounts from court, Dr. Besigye collapsed while protesting what he termed injustices by the trial judge, Emmanuel Baguma.

The protest followed Judge Baguma’s decision to call chief state witness Andrew Wilson Orlando, described as an American/British mercenary, to testify against Dr. Besigye and co-accused Obeid Lutale in the absence of their defence lawyers.

Dr. Besigye objected to proceeding with a trial without legal representation. Court officials said a protracted protest left him exhausted, and he collapsed as Orlando was being cross-examined by Chief State Prosecutor Richard Birivumbuka.

Dr. Besigye has been in detention since November 2024 alongside Lutale. Both face charges of treason and related offences, which they deny.

Authorities have not yet issued an update on Dr. Besigye’s medical condition.