Besigye, Obeid Lutale, UPDF Captain Oola Charged with Treason

Dr. Kizza Besigye, his aide Hajj Obeid Lutale, and a UPDF officer, Capt Denis Oola have been formally charged with treason at the Nakawa Magistrates Court. According to the charge sheet, dated February 20, 2025, Besigye, Lutale, and Oola are accused of plotting to overthrow the Government of Uganda.

Prosecution noted that the alleged offences took place between 2023 and November 2024, in multiple locations, including Switzerland, Greece, Kenya, and Uganda.

“…Contrived a plot, act or matter by force of arms to overturn the government of Uganda as by law established and expressed or declared such plot or act by any utterances and overt acts,” particulars of the offence read.

In addition to the treason charges, the trio are also facing an alternative charge of misprison of treason under Section 25 of the Penal Code Act.

Prosecution alleges that, while knowing about an intended act of treason, they failed to report it to authorities such as a minister, magistrate, or police officer.

With the latest developments, Besigye is set to remain in custody, as the lower court lacks the authority to hear capital offences such as treason.

Besigye, who is on a hunger strike, has been in prison since November 2024, after being picked from Kenya. He would later be presented before the General Court Martial in Makindye on charges of treachery and illegal possession of ammunition. However, a Supreme court ruling on January 31,2024, quashed all civilian proceedings in the General Court Martial.