KAMPALA, Uganda — The High Court is today expected to begin hearing the prosecution’s case against veteran opposition politician Kizza Besigye, with the State lined up to present at least 10 witnesses in a closely watched treason trial.
Dr Besigye is jointly charged with his political aide Obeid Lutale and Denis Oola. Prosecutors allege that the trio engaged in activities intended to undermine the government, allegations the accused have consistently denied, describing the charges as politically motivated.
The commencement of the prosecution’s case marks a significant stage in what is expected to be a lengthy legal battle attracting national and international attention from political observers, civil society organisations, diplomats and supporters from across Uganda’s political divide.
Among the witnesses expected to testify is former Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence chief Abel Kandiho. The prosecution is also expected to rely on intelligence reports, digital evidence and witness testimonies gathered during investigations into the alleged offences.
The trial begins amid lingering disputes over disclosure of evidence, with the defence team previously arguing that prosecutors had not provided sufficient time to review audio, video and other materials intended for use during the proceedings.
Lawyers representing Dr Besigye, led by Erias Lukwago and Fredrick Mpanga, sought a postponement of the hearing, contending that proceeding without adequate preparation would compromise their client’s right to a fair trial.
However, presiding judge Emmanuel Baguma ruled that the matter should proceed after preliminary legal issues were addressed earlier this week.
The court also appointed three assessors to participate in the proceedings, a decision that drew objections from the defence.
Dr Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and one of the most prominent critics of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, remains a central figure in Uganda’s opposition politics. His prosecution has generated debate among human rights advocates and opposition supporters, some of whom view the case as part of broader pressure on dissenting political voices.
Security has been heightened around the High Court in Kampala ahead of the hearing, with large numbers of journalists, lawyers, political supporters and members of the public expected to follow the proceedings.
The State is expected to call its first witnesses as the trial enters a critical phase that could have significant legal and political implications in the months ahead.
