Veteran opposition figure Kizza Besigye is set for a crucial day in court today as the State officially opens its treason case against him at the High Court in Kampala, with prosecutors expected to parade at least 10 witnesses.
Dr Besigye is jointly charged alongside his political aide Obeid Lutale and UPDF officer Denis Oola in a case prosecutors say involves acts intended to undermine the government.
The accused persons have strongly denied the allegations and insist the charges are politically driven.
The opening of the trial marks the beginning of what is expected to be a lengthy and closely followed legal battle, drawing attention from political observers, civil society organisations, diplomats, and supporters from both the opposition and ruling establishment.
Among the key witnesses expected to testify is former Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI) chief Maj Gen Abel Kandiho. Prosecutors are also expected to rely on intelligence reports, digital evidence, and testimonies collected during investigations into the alleged offences.
The hearing comes after weeks of legal disagreements over disclosure of evidence, with the defence team accusing prosecutors of failing to provide sufficient time to review audio and video materials intended for use during the trial.
Lawyers representing Dr Besigye, led by Erias Lukwago and Fredrick Mpanga, had sought to delay the proceedings, arguing that proceeding without adequate preparation would undermine the right to a fair hearing.
However, Justice Emmanuel Baguma ruled that the case should proceed after preliminary hearings concluded earlier this week.
The court also appointed three assessors to assist during the trial despite objections raised by the defence team.
Dr Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and long-time critic of President Yoweri Museveni’s administration, remains one of Uganda’s most influential opposition figures. His prosecution has sparked debate among human rights activists and opposition supporters, many of whom argue that the case reflects increasing pressure on dissenting political voices.
Tight security is expected around the High Court as the hearings get underway, with journalists, lawyers, political supporters, and members of the public anticipated to closely monitor the proceedings.
The State is expected to begin presenting its first witnesses today as the trial enters a critical phase that could shape Uganda’s political and legal landscape in the months ahead.
