Lawyer Eron Kiiza has raised fresh questions about the prosecution's evidence in the treason case against former presidential candidate Dr Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale, following the conclusion of testimony by a key State witness.
Andrew Wilson, also known as “Orlando”, stepped down from the witness box on Thursday, September 17, 2026, after four weeks of evidence in the High Court trial.
The prosecution has relied on his testimony and recordings in its case against Besigye and his co-accused.
Kiiza, one of Besigye's defence lawyers, argued that the recordings presented in court had not clearly established the alleged plot. He claimed the audio was distorted and contained echoes, requiring the prosecution to repeatedly pause the recordings and ask Wilson to explain what had been said.
According to Kiiza, the transcripts accompanying the recordings also failed to identify the speakers, instead referring to them as “Speaker 1” and “Speaker 2”. He further claimed that sections of the transcripts were marked “[indistinct]” hundreds of times.
The lawyer also challenged the interpretation of the evidence, arguing that Wilson became the principal interpreter of the recordings presented before court.
Kiiza further alleged that Wilson acknowledged working for the government and reporting to the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI). He claimed the witness was involved in arranging travel and accommodation and in discussions surrounding the alleged plot.
The lawyer said some of the alleged weapons and equipment discussed during the operation never materialised, describing the Nairobi activities as a “sting” operation.
Kiiza maintained that statements attributed to Besigye in the recordings centred on political activity rather than an armed uprising. He cited a discussion concerning the possibility of civil war, saying Besigye's position was that his political engagement was intended to prevent such an outcome.
Besigye, Lutale and Captain Oola Denis Oyaa are facing treason and related charges in Criminal Session Case No. 0335 of 2025. Court records show that the High Court has previously declined applications seeking to halt the proceedings, ordering the trial to continue.
Kiiza has now called for the immediate release of Besigye and Lutale, withdrawal of the case and independent forensic examination of the original recording devices and files.
His comments come as the prosecution continues presenting its case, with the defence expected to challenge the credibility, authenticity and interpretation of evidence relied upon by the State.