Agency
The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and the Attorney General have asked the High Court Criminal Division to dismiss an application by Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused Hajji Obeid Lutale, seeking to terminate their treason trial, arguing that the case should proceed on its merits.
This follows an application by Besigye and Lutale in which they accuse Gen. Muhoozi of making public social media statements that allegedly prejudged their case, threatened Besigye’s life, and undermined their right to a fair hearing.
In response, Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Atwiine, head of the Special Investigations Bureau (SIB) of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), filed an affidavit opposing the application.
Atwiine maintains that the accused remain presumed innocent until proven guilty and argues that only the UPDF spokesperson is mandated to speak on behalf of the military.
He further states that the criminal proceedings against Besigye and Lutale should be determined through the judicial process.
Besigye and Lutale are seeking court orders declaring their prosecution unconstitutional, arguing that Gen. Muhoozi’s statements amounted to public prejudgment of guilt, threats of extrajudicial punishment, and interference with judicial independence.
They cite several alleged social media posts attributed to the CDF, including statements suggesting that Besigye would be hanged, shot, or imprisoned indefinitely. However, the respondents argue that the applicants’ right to a fair hearing has not been violated and insist they will be able to challenge the evidence during trial before a competent court.
The matter is before Justice Emmanuel Baguma, who is expected to hear the application on June 30, 2026. Besigye, Lutale, and Capt. Denis Oola faces treason charges alleging conspiracy to overthrow the government. Prosecutors claim the accused held meetings in Geneva, Athens, Nairobi, and Kampala to mobilise funds, recruit fighters, and organise paramilitary operations. The state further alleges that Besigye received funds from a Kurdish intelligence contact identified as Andrew Wilson and facilitated plans linked to recruitment and training activities.Prosecutors also claim they possess audio recordings, video footage, social media messages, immigration documents, and phone logs linking the accused to the alleged plot.
