Lawyer Eron Kiiza has called for the arrest and prosecution of Wilson Orlando, accusing the key prosecution witness in Dr Kizza Besigye’s treason case of making reckless falsehoods with potentially serious consequences.
Kiiza, who has been closely involved in Besigye’s legal battles, said Orlando should be held accountable for what he described as “fraud and relentless fabrication” arising from his testimony in court.
“Arrest and charge ORLANDO. There must be an end to this madness, fraud and relentless fabrication,” Kiiza said in a statement.
Orlando has been giving evidence for the prosecution in the treason case involving Besigye and his co-accused, including Obeid Lutale. His testimony has centred on alleged plans involving weapons, paramilitary training, attacks on government targets and an alleged plot to assassinate President Yoweri Museveni.
The witness has also told court about covert recordings he allegedly made during meetings with Besigye and associates in Geneva, Athens and Nairobi. He has described using concealed recording devices while posing as a potential financier and arms dealer.
Kiiza, however, questioned the credibility and consequences of Orlando’s allegations, arguing that his claims should not be dismissed as mere statements made in court.
According to the lawyer, the alleged falsehoods could have far-reaching implications, including affecting the liberty of Ugandans and potentially putting individuals at risk.
“His reckless falsehoods are not harmless rhetoric. They have consequences: costing Ugandans their liberty, undermining public health, and, in the case of Kizza Besigye and Erias Lukwago, potentially putting lives at risk,” Kiiza said.
He insisted that freedom of expression should not shield individuals accused of deliberately providing false information or placing others in danger.
“Orlando must be held accountable for what he says and does,” he added.
Kiiza’s remarks come as Orlando’s testimony continues to form a significant part of the prosecution’s case against Besigye.
The defence is expected to challenge his evidence, including the authenticity and quality of the recordings and the circumstances under which they were obtained.
The allegations against Besigye and his co-accused remain contested and have not been established as facts by the court.