Veteran opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, his aide Obeid Lutale, and UPDF captain Denis Oola appeared before Nakawa Chief Magistrate’s Court this morning. The state has asked the court to send their case to the High Court for trial.
The three have been in detention since November 16, 2024, facing treason charges.The prosecution told the court that investigations are still ongoing.”We are still gathering more evidence against the accused persons,” the state prosecutor said.
Besigye and his co-accused listened as the state explained its case.
However, their lawyers objected, saying the prosecution was taking too long to conclude investigations.
“These people have been in custody for too long without a clear case against them. This is unfair,” Besigye’s lawyer argued.
The court session was tense, with Besigye’s supporters present outside the courtroom. Some chanted slogans demanding his release.
“Free Besigye! This is political persecution!” one supporter shouted. Police were on high alert, ensuring there was no chaos.
While in court, Besigye spoke briefly, saying,
“This is not about me. It is about the future of Uganda. We must continue fighting for our rights.” His words were met with murmurs of agreement from some people in the courtroom.
The magistrate listened to both sides before making a ruling.
“This court finds it necessary to send this case to the High Court for proper hearing. The accused persons will remain in custody until further notice,” she said.
The ruling did not go well with Besigye’s supporters, who continued protesting outside the court. Some held placards, while others engaged in heated arguments with security officers.
“Why arrest him for speaking the truth?” one woman asked angrily.
Besigye’s lawyer promised to challenge the ruling.
“We shall not give up. We shall go to the High Court and fight for his freedom,” he said.
The state has not given details on when the High Court will start the trial.
However, the prosecution insists that the treason charges are serious.
“Treason is a capital offense. We must take time to investigate properly,” the prosecutor stated.
