A prominent opposition figure in Uganda is set to stand trial on the serious charge of treachery, as ruled by a military court on Tuesday. This development has heightened the legal challenges facing the individual ahead of the presidential elections slated for 2026.
The charge of treachery, if convicted, carries the death penalty. The opposition figure, who has contested the presidency four times, was reported missing in Nairobi, Kenya, on Nov. 16. Subsequently, the individual, along with an assistant named Obeid Lutale, appeared before a military court in Kampala, the capital of Uganda.
The opposition figure was initially charged with illegal possession of a firearm and a charge related to the alleged solicitation of military support overseas to destabilize national security. The individual denied these charges and has been remanded in custody. A military prosecutor later amended the charge sheet to include treachery and introduced a third suspect, a serving army officer, which surprised defense attorneys who challenged the move.
Despite facing multiple arrests and assaults in the political career, the opposition figure has never been convicted of a crime. Amnesty International has called for the individual's release, citing violations of international human rights law in the abduction process.
The unfolding trial of the opposition figure is being closely monitored by Ugandans concerned about political developments ahead of the presidential elections. While the current president, who has been in power since 1986, is expected to seek re-election, there are speculations that he may step aside, given the absence of an obvious successor within the ruling party.
The opposition figure, a retired physician and former colonel in Uganda's military, previously served as the president of the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party. Known for being a vocal critic of the current president, the individual has been at the forefront of opposition politics in Uganda for many years.
Human rights organizations have criticized the current president for alleged violations against opposition figures. Uganda has not experienced a peaceful transfer of power since gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1962.
