By Africa.com | Created at 2025-01-15 06:31:35 | Updated at 2025-01-15 10:29:30
4 hours ago
A Ugandan military court has ruled that opposition leader Kizza Besigye can face trial on treachery charges, a crime punishable by death. Besigye, a four-time presidential contender, was arrested in November alongside two co-accused, including a serving army officer. He was then charged with illegally possessing a firearm and soliciting military support to destabilize national security, allegations he denies. On Monday, a military prosecutor amended the charge sheet to include treachery. Observers view the trial as part of Uganda’s pattern of using military courts to suppress dissent. While Besigye, a former ally turned critic of President Yoweri Museveni, has faced frequent arrests, he has never been convicted. The case comes as Uganda prepares for its 2026 elections. While many expect Museveni to seek re-election, some believe he may step aside, sparking fears of an unpredictable political transition since there is no clear successor within the ruling National Resistance Movement party.
Source: AP
