Besigye decries persecution as High Court proceeds with treason trial

KAMPALA, Uganda — Opposition leader Kizza Besigye decried what he called ongoing persecution Tuesday as the High Court entered not guilty pleas on his behalf after he and two co-accused refused to respond to amended treason charges.

The retired colonel told Justice Emmanuel Baguma that he was dissatisfied with the handling of the case and the lack of opportunity to consult his legal team before the charges were read.

“I am really horrified by the way things have been going,” Besigye told the court. “This is persecution, and I am really tired of being charged with treason that never comes.”

The proceedings in the Criminal Division of the High Court followed the filing of an amended indictment by the prosecution. Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Thomas Jatiko said the new document was intended to correct errors in the original filing, including the name of one of the accused and the specific court division.

Besigye’s aide, Hajji Obeid Lutale, and Capt. Denish Oola Oyaa also declined to enter pleas. Lutale remained silent or responded “no comment,” while Oyaa told the judge he would not plead without further guidance from his lawyers. Baguma entered not guilty pleas for all three men.

Defense attorneys, including Fredrick Mpanga and Erias Lukwago, objected to the amended indictment. Mpanga argued the document was dated Dec. 29, one day before the court had even issued the order allowing for the amendment.

The judge appointed three court assessors — John Musana, Richard Okello and Sarah Babirye — to sit during the trial. When Baguma asked Besigye if he had any objections to the appointments, the opposition leader replied, “Do what you want.”

As the hearing concluded, Besigye shouted from the dock that he was fed up with the legal proceedings.

The case was adjourned to Jan. 21, 2026, for scheduling.