Besigye treason case widens as prosecution names Musumba, Ssemujju and Rwomushana
The mention of additional opposition figures has raised questions about whether more people could be summoned or investigated as the case progresses.
The ongoing treason case involving opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye has widened after the prosecution named political analyst Charles Rwomushana, former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) vice-president Salaamu Musumba, and Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda among individuals allegedly linked to meetings at the centre of the case.
The three have not been charged in connection with the case, and the allegations presented by the prosecution remain untested in court. They are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
The names emerged from the State’s summary of evidence as proceedings continued against former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who is facing a charge of misprision of treason over allegations that he knew about a suspected treason plot but failed to report it to authorities.
Alleged Brussels Meeting
According to the prosecution’s account, an individual identified as Andrew Wilson (AW), described as the owner of a private security company, was introduced to Musumba in 2023.
The State alleges that Wilson later attended a meeting in Brussels, Belgium, involving Musumba, Lukwago, Ssemujju, Rwomushana and others.
Prosecutors claim discussions at the meeting involved alleged plans to remove the government through force of arms and that Wilson was presented as a possible security and military adviser.
The prosecution further alleges that Musumba later facilitated Wilson’s contact with an individual identified as “KB”, whom the State says is Dr. Besigye.
The State says additional meetings and communications followed, including interactions in Geneva, Switzerland.
Besigye Case Background
Dr. Besigye, together with Haji Obeid Lutale and UPDF Captain Denis Oola, is facing charges related to allegations of plotting to overthrow the government through unlawful means.
The case has attracted national attention, with the defence questioning aspects of the prosecution and raising concerns about the rights of the accused, while the State maintains that it will present evidence before court.
The prosecution says it intends to rely on materials including recordings, communications and other evidence gathered during investigations.
Possible Further Developments
The mention of additional opposition figures has raised questions about whether more people could be summoned or investigated as the case progresses.
However, authorities have not announced charges against Musumba, Ssemujju or Rwomushana.
The developments come amid heightened political interest in the case, which has become one of the most closely watched legal battles involving Uganda’s opposition.
All individuals named in relation to the allegations are entitled to a fair hearing and remain innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.
