Obeid Lutale appoints daughter to defense team in Uganda treason trial

In the High Court of Uganda, treason suspect Obeid Lutale has instructed his daughter, Mariam Lutale, to join his legal defense team. This move follows the mass withdrawal of his previous counsel, including Kenyan Senior Counsel Martha Karua and former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, after Lukwago’s arrest and Karua’s deportation. The defense team now includes Mariam Lutale, Farouk Kizito Kamulegeya, Wilson Kato, and Sylas Ogul from Baraka Legal Associated Advocates.

Lutale is being tried alongside former presidential candidate Dr. Kizza Besigye and Captain Denis Oola. During the proceedings, the prosecution presented audio and video evidence recorded in Geneva, Switzerland, Nairobi, and Athens, Greece. The prosecution alleges these recordings document a plot by Besigye and others to overthrow the government of Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

Private security investigator Andrew Wilson testified regarding the use of various covert recording devices, such as cameras hidden in chargers and flowerpots. Wilson testified that he was approached to assist in training a group of approximately 60 opposition members in paramilitary skills and the acquisition of weapons, including firearms and ricin, to facilitate the alleged coup attempt. Dr. Besigye is currently being tried in absentia.