Kampala— The treason case involving opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye has widened after prosecutors named political analyst Charles Rwomushana, former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) vice-president Salaamu Musumba, and former Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda among individuals allegedly linked to meetings under investigation.
However, none of the three has been charged in the matter, and the allegations presented by the prosecution remain untested in court. They are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
The names emerged from the State’s summary of evidence as proceedings continued against former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who is facing a charge of misprision of treason — an allegation that he knew about a suspected treason plot but failed to report it to authorities.
Alleged Brussels Meeting
According to the prosecution, an individual identified as Andrew Wilson (AW), described as the owner of a private security company, was introduced to Musumba in 2023.
The State alleges that Wilson later attended a meeting in Brussels, Belgium, involving Musumba, Lukwago, Ssemujju, Rwomushana and other individuals.
Prosecutors claim discussions at the meeting centred on alleged plans to remove the government through force of arms and that Wilson was presented as a possible security and military adviser.
The State further alleges that Musumba later facilitated contact between Wilson and an individual identified as “KB”, whom prosecutors say refers to Dr. Besigye.
According to the prosecution, subsequent meetings and communications took place, including engagements in Geneva, Switzerland.
Besigye Case Background
Dr. Besigye, together with Haji Obeid Lutale and UPDF Captain Denis Oola, is facing charges related to allegations of plotting to overthrow the government through unlawful means.
The case has attracted national attention, with the defence challenging aspects of the prosecution’s case and raising concerns regarding the rights of the accused.
The State has maintained that it will present evidence before court, including recordings, communications and other materials obtained during investigations.
Possible Further Developments
The mention of additional opposition figures has raised speculation about whether more individuals could be summoned or investigated as proceedings continue.
However, authorities have not announced charges against Musumba, Ssemujju or Rwomushana.
The case remains one of the most closely watched legal battles involving Uganda’s opposition, with all individuals linked to the allegations entitled to a fair hearing and presumed innocent until proven guilty.
