RITAH

Military prosecutors have added a treachery charge against Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye and co-accused Abeid Lutaale Kamulegeya, who were initially facing charges of unlawful possession of ammunition and firearms among other charges.

The amended charges now include a third defendant, Captain Denis Ola, a serving UPDF officer from the Armoured Brigade, who has been brought into the case, also facing the same charge of treachery.

During today’s proceedings, the prosecution team, led by Col. Raphael Mugisha, revealed that further investigation linked Captain Ola to the offense, prompting the addition of his name to the charges.

The court session began with defense lawyers raising numerous objections, including concerns over jurisdiction, as the court has yet to rule on whether it has the authority to try civilians in a military court.

The defense, led by renowned Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua contested the amendment, claiming that the inclusion of a serving soldier was intended to rectify alleged illegalities and revive a case that they believe should not be tried in a court martial.

The judge of the court martial in the proceeding warned the defense in terming martial court tribunal

The judge then disregarded the allegations made by the defense towards the court martial on the violations of rights against dr Kizza besigye.

The defence team in the Kizza Besigye and Obeid Lutale trial at the General Court Martial objected to amendment of the charge sheet as the military court sought to add a soldier to the dock.

After the court session Martha Karua speaking to the media elaborated more about the prosecution amending charge sheet.

Kizza Besigye and Obeid Lutale are expected to return to court tomorrow for the final trial.