Besigye Trial Proceeds in Absentia as State Presents First Witness

The High Court in Kampala began the treason trial of Dr. Kizza Besigye on Tuesday, with proceedings taking place without the jailed opposition figure. The prosecution requested the court to continue in Besigye’s absence after a prison official, Emmanuel Hiire, informed the court that Besigye had declined to attend, even virtually.

However, Hajji Obeid Lutale, a co-accused, contested this, asserting that Besigye was not refusing to attend but had been hospitalized since August 4. Lutale suggested the judge visit the prison hospital to ascertain Besigye’s condition, a proposal the judge declined, citing a medical letter indicating Besigye was unable to speak but could follow proceedings.

The prosecution, arguing that Besigye’s absence was a tactic to delay the case, cited previous trials where proceedings continued without the accused. These included cases involving Dr. Matthew Kirabo, Jamilu Mukulu, and Herbert Kabafunzaki.

Judge Emmanuel Baguma ruled that the trial could proceed in Besigye’s absence. The court then heard from the prosecution’s first witness, Andrew Wilson, a US-based private investigator. Wilson testified that he was contacted in 2021 by Joel Wakayima, who sought paramilitary training for individuals in Uganda to overthrow the government.

Wilson alleged that he met Besigye and Lutale in Nairobi in November 2024, where a meeting disguised as a journalist training session allegedly involved discussions of security and advanced training, including the use of explosives and drones for attacks on Ugandan officials and embassies. He also claimed discussions included plans to disrupt Uganda’s economy with counterfeit currency and the establishment of a shadow government.

Wilson further testified about communications with Besigye via WhatsApp and subsequent forwarding of conversations to a UPDF officer. The prosecution alleges Besigye received funds to transport Ugandans for military training, and that Besigye sought to acquire weapons and plan assassinations, charges that Besigye, Lutale, and Captain Denis Oola deny.

The trial continues daily. Meanwhile, journalists protested restrictions on electronic devices in the courtroom, leading to some remaining outside.

This trial stems from allegations that Besigye, Lutale, and Oola plotted to overthrow the Ugandan government. https://observer.ug/news/besigye-misses-treason-trial-as-state-witness-testifies