ORLANDO’S EVIDENCE: Unclear videos, audios in Besigye treason case plot played in court

What the report says

The prosecution in Kampala has presented a new batch of video and audio recordings in the treason case against opposition politician Dr Kizza Besigye, according to The Independent Uganda. The material was played before Criminal Division Judge Emmanuel Baguma on August 24, during a hearing in which Besigye is being tried in absentia alongside his co-accused Obeid Lutale and Capt. Denis Oola.

The outlet reported that the evidence came from witness Andrew Wilson Orlando, described in court as a private security investigator. He told the court that he covertly recorded meetings held outside Uganda, including in Geneva, Athens and Nairobi, using hidden cameras, audio devices, phones and storage gadgets. Prosecutors say the recordings support allegations that the accused discussed plans to overthrow the Ugandan government and sought funding, weapons and paramilitary training.

The report said the court struggled to clearly hear parts of the recordings because of poor sound quality. Some observers reportedly questioned how much the clips could prove without clearer audio. The hearing was adjourned to August 25 for further prosecution testimony.

If proved, the allegations would be significant because they form part of a broader state case claiming that Besigye and his co-accused organised meetings and contacts across several countries to prepare for unlawful political and security activities. The Independent Uganda’s account also places the hearing within a wider, politically sensitive trial that has drawn public attention in Uganda.