Besigye, Obeid & UPDF Captain Oola Charged With Treason

The Ugandan government has formally charged retired Colonel Dr. Kizza Besigye, along with Hajji Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola, with treason and misprision of treason under Sections 23 and 25 of Uganda’s Penal Code Act, Cap 128.

According to documents filed by the Uganda Police’s Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), the trio is accused of plotting to overthrow the government between 2023 and November 2024. The charges allege that they coordinated efforts across multiple countries, including Switzerland, Greece, Kenya, and Uganda, by holding meetings, offering logistical support, and organizing military training for Ugandan citizens.

Details of the Allegations

The police claim that Dr. Besigye and his co-accused met physically and virtually with various individuals in cities such as Geneva, Athens, Nairobi, and Kampala to further their plot. The charges also suggest that they sought military, financial, and logistical support to carry out their objectives.

Additionally, they are accused of organizing the travel of Ugandan citizens to Kisumu, Kenya, for military and intelligence-gathering training aimed at destabilizing the Ugandan government.

Alternative Charge: Misprision of Treason

The government has also presented an alternative charge of misprision of treason. This charge accuses the defendants of failing to report knowledge of a treasonous plot to authorities in a timely manner.

Political Repercussions

Dr. Besigye, a former UPDF officer and a long-time political opponent of President Yoweri Museveni, has faced numerous charges in the past, most of which were dismissed or seen by critics as politically motivated attempts to stifle dissent. This latest development could heighten political tensions ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Next Steps

The accused are expected to appear before a magistrate in Kampala. If convicted, they could face life imprisonment or, in extreme cases, the death penalty under Ugandan law.