The Ugandan Presidency has moved to reassure the public over the health and continued detention of Dr. Kizza Besigye, amid growing concerns following his recent visit to The Clinic at Village Mall Bugolobi. Besigye was assessed by his personal doctor before being returned to Luzira Maximum Security Prison, where he is currently held.
Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Farouk Kirunda urged the public and Besigye’s family to remain calm and trust the ongoing legal process. He emphasized that there is no need for alarm regarding the opposition leader’s well-being.
“I appreciate the concerns surrounding Dr. Besigye’s situation and sympathize with his family. However, there is no need for panic, but rather understanding of the legal process that is unfolding,” Kirunda said in a statement on Sunday night.
He reassured that Besigye’s case is being transferred from the General Court Martial to a civilian court, following a landmark Supreme Court ruling declaring military trials for civilians illegal. “The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has already taken steps to comply with the Supreme Court ruling,” Kirunda added. He also clarified that Besigye is not under military detention but is currently held at Luzira prison, where his family is allowed to visit him.
Regarding reports that Besigye is on a hunger strike, Kirunda urged his family to encourage him to accept nourishment as his legal team works on securing bail or other relief measures.
Despite these reassurances, Besigye’s family, led by his wife, Winnie Byanyima, and his supporters, remain highly concerned about his health. Byanyima, a prominent political figure, dismissed government statements, claiming that Besigye’s imprisonment is politically motivated and unlawful. She criticized Information Minister Dr. Chris Baryomunsi’s attempts to downplay Besigye’s suffering, calling it “deceptive counsel from his captors” on social media.
The opposition and human rights activists continue to demand Besigye’s immediate release, asserting that the charges against him are politically driven and that the delay in transferring his case to civilian courts is an attempt to prolong his detention.
Justice Minister Norbert Mao emphasized that the Supreme Court did not order Besigye’s immediate release but confirmed that the transfer process is ongoing. Besigye and political associate Hajj Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya face charges of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, as well as treachery. Besigye is also facing additional charges for leading a 2022 demonstration against rising commodity prices.
Besigye’s health has worsened during his detention, and he appeared weak and frail during his recent appearance in Buganda Road Court, where he struggled to catch his breath. The uncertainty surrounding his legal status and health continues to put pressure on the government to resolve the situation swiftly.
The public is closely watching for further developments as the legal process continues to unfold.
