Obeid Lutale Identified as "Second-in-Command" in Besigye Treason Trial

Obeid Lutale, a political aide to prominent opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, has been named for the first time in the ongoing treason trial involving the former presidential candidate. During court proceedings yesterday, the principal prosecution witness, Andrew Wilson, alias Orlando, stated that Dr. Besigye had referred to Lutale as his “second in command.”

Wilson testified that he first encountered Lutale at a meeting held in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024. This was the only meeting Lutale attended among the several held, with previous gatherings taking place in Athens, Greece, and Geneva, Switzerland.

Lutale is currently facing charges alongside Dr. Besigye and UPDF Captain Denis Oola, accused of conspiring to overthrow the government through armed means. The defendants have pleaded not guilty to the allegations.

During the Nairobi meeting, Wilson observed Lutale seated next to Dr. Besigye. When questioned by Chief State Attorney Richard Birivumbuka about Lutale’s activities, Wilson stated that Lutale was listening and did not contribute to the discussions. He recounted that Dr. Besigye had informed him before the meeting that he would be bringing his “second in command,” indicating that Lutale could be contacted if Dr. Besigye himself was unavailable.

The prosecution witness also revealed that he and his associates had attempted to secretly record the meeting using two devices, one hidden in a flower pot and another under a table. However, one recording device reportedly failed to save the data amidst the commotion following Dr. Besigye’s arrest.

As Wilson concluded his examination-in-chief, the defense team for Lutale, led by Farouk Kizito Kamulegeya, requested a two-week adjournment to review the substantial audio and video evidence presented. Justice Baguma denied this request, directing the lawyers to be prepared for cross-examination next week.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/lutale-named-in-dr-besigye-treason-trial-5587358