The High Court in Kampala has ordered the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to make full disclosure of all evidence it intends to rely on, in the ongoing treason trial of opposition politician Kizza Besigye and his co-accused.
Justice Emmanuel Baguma issued the directive after heated exchanges between the prosecution and defence teams over delayed disclosure of evidence.
Dr.Besigye today appeared in court alongside Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola to stand trial on treason charges.
However his lawyers include Senior Counsel Martha Karua, Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and Ernest Kalibbala opposed the trial demanding full disclosure of presentation’s evidence against their clients.
Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Thomas Jatiko told court that the State had made partial disclosure, including transcribed audio and video recordings, witness statements and documentary evidence.
He said that more materials, such as a forensic report, were still being prepared and would be supplied to the 18 defence lawyers in accessible formats.
However, yhe defence lawyers including Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago objected, arguing that the prosecution had failed to comply with earlier court timelines requiring full disclosure by January 21, 2026.
Lukwago said that the defence had only received one file marked “Volume 1” and had not been informed of the total number of volumes.
He also asked court to consider Besigye’s health as he remains on remand after being denied bail.
Justice Baguma adjourned the case to March 12, 2026 to allow the prosecution to complete disclosure.
Outside court, Besigye’s wife Winnie Byanyima, described the trial as political persecution and said that he remains unwell as he approaches his 70th birthday.
The trio is accused of plotting to overthrow the government by allegedly holding meetings in Geneva, Athens, Nairobi and Kampala to solicit funds, acquire weapons and organise paramilitary activities.
Prosecutors claim they have audio and video recordings, social media messages, immigration documents and phone logs linking the accused to the alleged plot.
Report by: Betty Zziwa
