A Ugandan military court has charged opposition leader Kizza Besigye with terrorism and illegal possession of firearms. Dr. Besigye did not speak when he appeared in court today. The head of the court offered a plea of not guilty on his behalf. A civilian court has already charged Dr. Besigye with treason and rape. He and 22 co-defendants are accused of planning to overthrow the government of President Yoweri Museveni.
Dr. Besigye has been jailed since his arrest on November 14th, which sparked street protests. He returned to Uganda last month after four years in exile and was expected to be President Museveni’s toughest challenger in next year’s election. Wandera Ogalo is a member of Dr. Besigye’s defense team. He told reporter Shaka Ssali that his arrests are in violation of the constitution -- which allows for bail. He also says the government has arrested him to prevent him from running in next year's presidential elections opposite President Yoweri Museveni. The government denies the charge.
