Opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused, Hajji Obeid Lutaale, are set to return to the High Court for the ruling on their bail application, as the two suspects have spent over 140 days in prison. Lady Justice Rosette Comfort Kania will deliver the ruling on the bail application at 9am.
The two are jointly charged with UPDF officer Capt. Denis Oola. They are accused of soliciting firearms, logistical, and financial support in Geneva, Athens, Nairobi, and Kampala as part of efforts to overthrow the current government.
In his bail application, Besigye asked the court to consider his long-standing record of law-abiding behavior, noting that he has never been convicted despite facing numerous legal challenges over the years. He maintains that he has consistently complied with court summons and has no intention of fleeing justice.
Besigye’s proposed sureties are MPs Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda (Kira Municipality), Muhindo Tonny (Bukonzo East), Francis Mwijukye (Buhweju County), and Nicholas Kamara (Kabale Municipality).
For Lutaale, the sureties include his wife Halima Nagitta, his brother Ssewankabo Hamza, and his daughter Nanfuka Zura.
However, the prosecution—led by Chief State Attorney Richard Birivumbuka—asserts that the sureties lack both the financial means and the personal authority required for such a high-profile case involving treason and misprision of treason charges.
The state further expressed concern that the applicants’ political influence and stature could enable them to interfere with investigations or witnesses.