
KAMPALA – The treason case against Dr. Kizza Besigye, a prominent opposition leader in Uganda, took a dramatic turn after the Court Martial denied his request to refer the case to the Constitutional Court. The court cited that similar issues are already under appeal in the Supreme Court, prompting Besigye and his co-accused, Hajji Obeid Lutale, to protest the ruling.
Dr. Besigye, a vocal critic of the government, and his aide, Hajji Obeid Lutale, were arrested on December 10, 2024, on charges of possession of firearm and ammunition before the state added onto them another case of treason.
In a previous hearing, Besigye’s lawyer, Eron Kiiza, was arrested and beaten by military police officers, sparking outrage among opposition members, who accused security personnel of harassment and intimidation.
On the day of the latest hearing, Besigye and Lutale appeared before the Court Martial, where they were expected to enter a plea. However, Besigye’s lawyer requested that the case be referred to the Constitutional Court, citing concerns about the jurisdiction of the Court Martial and the constitutionality of the charges.
The Court Martial denied the request, citing that similar issues are already under appeal in the Supreme Court. Besigye and Lutale protested the ruling and refused to plead, forcing the court to record not-guilty pleas on their behalf. Captain Dennis Ola also pleaded not guilty to related charges.
The case has been adjourned to February 3, 2025, and Besigye’s supporters have rallied behind him, condemning the Court Martial’s decision and accusing it of functioning as a “kangaroo court.” The case has ignited tensions in Uganda, with many questioning the independence and impartiality of the judiciary. As the case unfolds, many will be watching to see how the Court Martial handles the treason charges against Besigye and his co-accused.