KAMPALA – Retired Colonel Dr. Kizza Besigye, a former presidential candidate, has been charged with treason alongside Haji Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola. The trio is accused of plotting to overthrow the government between 2023 and November 2024.
According to a charge sheet from the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) headquarters, the suspects allegedly conspired in multiple locations, including Geneva (Switzerland), Athens (Greece), Nairobi (Kenya), and Kampala (Uganda). The prosecution claims they used “force of arms” and made public declarations supporting an effort to unseat the government.
Besigye, a longtime opposition figure and critic of President Yoweri Museveni’s administration, has faced similar charges in the past. His co-accused, Haji Obeid Lutale, a prominent businessman, and Captain Denis Oola, a serving Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officer, are also alleged to have played key roles in the scheme.
While details of their purported actions remain unclear, authorities have cited “utterances and overt acts” as evidence. The police say other individuals involved in the plot are still at large.
The case is expected to draw significant attention, given Besigye’s history with Uganda’s political opposition. His legal team has yet to respond to the charges, but analysts predict a prolonged legal battle.
Authorities have not disclosed whether the suspects will be granted bail. Meanwhile, security agencies have heightened surveillance in key urban areas amid fears of potential unrest.
More updates to follow as the case develops.
