The Prosecution has opposed the bail application for Dr. Kizza Besigye and Obeid Lutaale, arguing that the duo’s sureties are not substantial enough to guarantee their appearance in court.
In their written submissions given to the Justice Rosette Comfort Kania, State Attorney Richard Birivumbuka contends that sureties are younger than the applicants and lack the necessary influence to compel them to appear in court.
In his bail application, Dr Besigye presented his longtime friends and legislators Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda, the Kira Municipality MP, Muhindo Tonny Bukonzo East County MP, Francis Mwijukye MP Buhweju County and Nicholas Kamara the Kabaale Municipality legislator.
On the other hand, Hajji Obeid Lutaale presented his wife Halima Nagitta, his brother Ssewankabo Hamza and his daughter Nanfuka Zura as his sureties.
The Prosecution also contends that the sureties failed to provide proof of financial capability, such as bank statements, to meet the terms of the bond.
Additionally, the prosecution pointed out that one of the sureties, MP Ssemujju , has pending charges against him, which raises concerns about his suitability as a surety. The prosecution also argues that the applicants’ influence and status could lead to interference with investigations and witnesses.
Besigye and Lutaale are jointly charged with UPDF officer Captain Denis Oola and they were recently remanded until April 28th, 2025, as investigations into charges of treason and misprision of treason continue.
The Prosecutors allege that the trio while in various cities including Geneva Switzerland, Athens in Greece and Nairobi in Kenya and Kampala in Uganda solicited for firearms, logistical and financial support and attended meetings with intentions to overthrow the current government of Uganda.
Report by: Betty Zziwa
