Uganda’s veteran politician and four-time presidential candidate, Rtd. Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye is destined to remain in custody beyond today, Friday, February 21, following the State’s decision to file fresh charges against him.
Dr. Besigye and his associate Haji Obeid Lutale, have had a treason charge added on their earlier charges, marking a significant escalation in the case against them in the Nakawa Magistrates Court.
Besigye has faced treason charges before. In 2005, he was accused of leading the People’s Redemption Army, a rebel outfit started by rebellious UPDF officers.
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This development comes after their trial was transferred from the General Court Martial, which had been declared an unlawful forum for trying civilians. They have been charged with UPDF officer Capt. Denis Oola.
The trio appeared before the Nakawa Chief Magistrate, Esther Nyadoi, a move that spells prolonged stay on remand, as the lower court has no jurisdiction to try cases of a capital nature.
Indications of the new charges surfaced during Dr Besigye’s last court appearance at Buganda Road Court on Tuesday, February 18, when counter terrorism police swarmed the premises. This unusual security presence signaled the State’s preparation for a dramatic shift in the handling of the case.
A production warrant issued on February 20, 2025, instructed Luzira Upper Prison authorities to produce Dr. Besigye in court today. The warrant, signed by the Chief Magistrate, reads in part:
“You are hereby directed to produce Col (Rtd) Dr. Kizza Besigye before the Chief Magistrates Court of Nakawa at 9:00 am on the 21st day of February 2025.”
The new charge sheet before the Chief Magistrates Court slaps treason charges against Dr. Besigye and Lutale, though particulars of the offence could not be disclosed immediately.
Further details of the treason charges are expected to be disclosed in today’s proceedings at the Nakawa Chief Magistrates Court.
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