Dr. Kizza Besigye, along with co-accused Lutale and Captain Oola, has been remanded to Luzira Prison after appearing before Nakawa Chief Magistrate’s Court on fresh treason charges.
The state alleges that between 2023 and November 2024, the accused were involved in activities aimed at overthrowing the government of Uganda, including attending meetings in various international locations, soliciting support, and organizing military training for Ugandan citizens in Kisumu, Kenya.
The trio also faces an alternative charge of misprision of treason for allegedly failing to report knowledge of a planned treasonous act.
During the court session, the state prosecutor requested more time for investigations, stating that they were still ongoing.
The magistrate, Esther Nyadoi, ruled that the accused could not take plea as treason is a capital offence that can only be tried by the High Court. She subsequently remanded them to Luzira Prison until March 7, 2025, for mention.
Besigye’s lawyer, Erias Lukwago, requested his transfer to a better medical facility, citing health concerns. However, the magistrate declined, citing the nature of the charges, but urged for expedited investigations to facilitate trial.
Dr. Besigye and Lutale were reportedly abducted from Nairobi, Kenya, in November 2024 before being detained at Makindye Military Barracks and later arraigned in the General Court Martial.