Former presidential candidate Dr. Kizza Besigye and his aide, Hajji Obeid Lutale and UPDF’s Captain Denis Oola have been charged with treason. The trio appeared before the Nakawa Chief Magistrate’s Court on Friday, but the case was adjourned.
Presiding over the matter, Chief Magistrate Esther Nyadoi told the court that it lacked jurisdiction to handle the treason charges. This prompted the Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, Lino Anguzu to request an adjournment, saying investigations were incomplete and committal papers were not yet ready.
Besigye’s defense lawyers led by Erias Lukwago raised concerns about the military’s presence in court, calling for their replacement with police officers. Lukwago also emphasized that these charges are separate from those previously filed against Besigye in the General Court Martial.
The new charges allege that Besigye, Lutale, and UPDF officer Captain Denis Oola conspired to overthrow the Ugandan government by force between 2023 and November 2024. Authorities claim the alleged conspiracy took place in Geneva, Athens, Nairobi, and Kampala.
The accused also face alternative charges of misprision of treason—failing to report a plot to commit treason. However, the latest charges do not include earlier allegations of illegal firearm possession.
Meanwhile, Besigye’s legal team is now pushing for bail, citing his deteriorating condition and the need for urgent medical care.
The case has been adjourned to March 7, 2025, as investigations continue. Separately, the High Court is expected to rule on a habeas corpus application seeking Besigye’s unconditional release, following a Supreme Court order.
For now, Dr. Besigye remains in detention as legal battles over his case unfold.
