Court has rescheduled the treason trial of Retired Dr. Kizza Besigye and his aide Hajj Obeid Lutale to October 1 after both failed to appear. Only Capt. Denis Oola showed up.
Besigye sent a letter saying he was sick: “I am unwell and unable to attend court today.” Lutale’s note was short: “I am unable to attend court and request for another date.”
Lead lawyer Martha Karua shocked the court by revealing that Besigye’s team had not been told about the letters before the hearing.
State prosecutor Lino Anguzu told the judge the trial could not continue without the accused. Justice Emmanuel Baguma adjourned the case to October 1.
The three are charged with treason over alleged plans to overthrow the government. They are accused of holding secret meetings in Nairobi, Geneva, Athens, and Kampala.
Last month, the court rejected their request for mandatory bail, ruling that the 180-day remand period had not yet passed. Justice Baguma clarified the countdown started on February 21, 2025, when the Nakawa Magistrates Court officially remanded them.
Besigye and his team, including lawyers Martha Karua and Erias Lukwago, remain in the spotlight. Sureties include MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda and former Opposition Leader Wafula Oguttu.
All eyes are now on October 1, when the treason showdown will resume.
