By Spy Uganda
In a dramatic turn of events, military prosecutors have escalated charges against Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused Abeid Lutaale Kamulegeya by introducing a treachery charge.
This development comes amid an ongoing case involving allegations of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. The amendment also brings a third defendant into the spotlight, Captain Denis Ola, a serving officer from the UPDF Armoured Brigade, who is now accused of treachery alongside the initial defendants.
The prosecution, led by Col. Raphael Mugisha, justified the inclusion of Captain Ola in the case, citing fresh investigative findings that purportedly link him to the alleged offenses.
Besigye’s lawyers believe Captain Ola’s involvement underscores the military’s intent to broaden the scope of its case, though it has also intensified questions surrounding the legitimacy of the proceedings.
Today’s court session was marked by heated exchanges as the defense, headed by Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua, raised objections to the amended charges. Among the core issues is whether a military court martial has the jurisdiction to try civilians, particularly for alleged crimes committed outside Uganda in locations such as Geneva, Greece, and Kenya.
Karua argued that the inclusion of Captain Ola, a serving soldier, appeared to be a strategic move to address legal gaps in the case and revive what she described as a politically motivated prosecution. She also contended that the amendments at this stage violated procedural fairness, further complicating the trial’s legitimacy.
Col. Dr. Besigye, a former ally turned political rival of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, has long accused the government of using the courts to silence dissent. Besigye, who has been in custody since November 2024, has faced numerous legal challenges over the years, including high-profile cases in 2006 that were eventually dismissed. This case adds to his long-standing narrative of political persecution.
Delays have plagued the case, with setbacks including the recent imprisonment of defense lawyer Eron Kiiza for contempt of court and issues regarding the defense team’s practicing certificates. The prosecution’s amendments have further delayed proceedings until tomorrow, prompting the court to adjourn for deliberation on whether the new charges can be introduced at this stage.
