By Frank Kamuntu
Veteran opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, his aide Hajj Obeid Lutale, and UPDF officer Capt. Denis Oola have been formally charged with treason at Nakawa Chief Magistrates Court and remanded back to Luzira until 7th March.
According to Court documents, the three, along with others still at large, allegedly engaged in activities aimed at overthrowing the government of Uganda by force of arms between 2023 and November 2024. The charge sheet details a series of meetings held in Switzerland, Greece, Kenya, and Uganda, where they reportedly conspired to execute a coup.
The Charges
The primary charge of treason is contrary to Section 23(1)(c) of the Penal Code Act, Cap 128. The particulars of the offense indicate that Dr. Besigye, Lutale, and Capt. Oola:
- Traveled to Switzerland, Greece, and Kenya to attend meetings aimed at furthering a plan to overthrow the government.
- Held discussions in Geneva, Athens, Nairobi, and Kampala with various individuals, physically and virtually, to advance the alleged plot.
- Expressed their intent to overthrow the government in private conversations.
- Facilitated logistical support for Ugandan citizens to receive military and intelligence training in Kisumu, Kenya.
- Sought military, financial, and other resources to support the alleged coup.
The trio also faces an alternative charge of misprision of treason, under Section 25 of the Penal Code Act, for allegedly failing to report knowledge of an impending treasonous act to the authorities.
During the court session at Nakawa Chief Magistrates Court, the accused were remanded to Luzira Prison until March 7, 2025, pending further proceedings at High Court which has jurisdiction over this matter. The prosecution argued that the nature of the charges warranted continued detention while investigations continue.
Dr. Besigye, a longtime critic of President Yoweri Museveni, has previously faced multiple treason charges, often linked to his political activism and opposition to the ruling government. His latest legal battle is expected to spark renewed political debate and tension in the country more so, ahead of this 2026 election.
As the case unfolds, legal experts and political analysts are closely monitoring developments, with supporters of Dr. Besigye decrying the charges as politically motivated. Meanwhile, government officials maintain that the law must take its course.
Below Is Full Charge Sheet
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