Written By | Peter Luzinda
The prosecution is expected to call at least 10 witnesses against Dr. Besigye, his aide Obeid Lutale, and UPDF officer Denis Oola during hearings before the High Court in Kampala.
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KAMPALA
Veteran opposition politician Kizza Besigye returns to court today as the State begins presenting its case in a high-profile treason trial that has attracted nationwide attention and renewed debate over Uganda’s political climate.
The prosecution is expected to call at least 10 witnesses against Dr. Besigye, his aide Obeid Lutale, and UPDF officer Denis Oola during hearings before the High Court in Kampala.
State attorneys say the witnesses will help establish allegations that the accused participated in activities aimed at undermining the government. Prosecutors are also expected to present intelligence briefs, electronic evidence, and investigative records gathered over the course of the inquiry.
Former Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI) director Maj. Gen. Abel Kandiho is among the notable individuals expected to testify, adding further significance to proceedings already drawing intense public and media interest.
The opening of the trial follows weeks of legal contest between the defense and prosecution over access to evidence. Defense lawyers led by Erias Lukwago and Fredrick Mpanga argued that the State had delayed disclosing key audio and video materials intended for use in court.
However, Justice Emmanuel Baguma ruled that the case should proceed after preliminary hearings concluded earlier this week. The court also approved the appointment of three assessors to assist during the trial, despite objections from the defense team.
Dr. Besigye has repeatedly denied the accusations against him, maintaining that the charges are politically motivated and intended to silence opposition voices. The veteran politician, who has challenged President Yoweri Museveni in four presidential elections, remains one of the country’s most influential opposition figures.
Human rights organizations and opposition supporters have continued to express concern over the prosecution, arguing that the case raises broader questions about political freedoms, justice, and democratic space in Uganda.
Security around the High Court is expected to remain heightened as lawyers, supporters, political observers, journalists, and diplomats gather to follow proceedings in what is likely to become one of the most closely watched court battles in recent years.
The hearings are expected to continue over the coming days as the State begins calling its witnesses before the defense presents its case.
