In his bail application, Dr. Kizza Besigye asserts, “From my record, I have never committed any offence or been convicted concerning the numerous charges that have been brought against me. Over the years, I have faced various serious accusations, including rape, treason, and terrorism, as well as many lesser offences. None of these charges have led to a conviction.”
He continues, “In the past, I have been granted bail and have adhered to all conditions set, even amidst a demanding campaign schedule. For instance, during the 2006 general elections, in November 2005, I was falsely charged with treason and rape. These cases were heard in the Kampala High Court, where I was granted bail and complied with all conditions until I was acquitted of the rape charge after a full hearing. Additionally, the treason charge was permanently dismissed by the Constitutional Court.”
Besigye, who has contested the presidency four times, notes that following the 2016 elections, he was again charged with treason but was granted bail, abiding by all conditions until the state withdrew the charges in 2019.
“I fully understand the implications and requirements of being released on bail,” he adds. “I am committed to attending court as required, whether for mention, hearing, or any other legal proceedings.”
At 68 years old, Besigye argues that his advanced age makes him vulnerable to the harsh conditions in prison, especially considering that he has already been unlawfully remanded for over 100 days. He asserts, “I am not in a physical condition to endure the prison’s harsh environment, especially given the uncertain length of my pre-trial remand. The period of my remand remains unclear since I have yet to be committed to trial in the High Court.”
Besigye emphasizes that he is not a flight risk or a threat to the proceedings. “I have substantial sureties who are fully aware of their responsibilities and are willing to ensure that I appear in court when required. I have never interfered with investigations or witnesses in past cases, and I have no intention or capacity to do so now,” he states
Besigye and his co-accused are charged with treason under Section 23(1)(c) of the Penal Code Act, Cap 128. The prosecution claims that, between 2023 and November 2024, Besigye, his aide Hajji Obeid Lutale (65), Captain Oola (48) of the UPDF, and others still at large, conspired in various countries, including Switzerland, Greece, Kenya, and Uganda, to overthrow the Ugandan government through armed force. The prosecution alleges that they made declarations and took actions to support this plot, which allegedly involved meetings in these countries to further their aims.
