Detained Opposition Leader Besigye’s Health Deteriorates
Kampala|FileFactsUg
Dr. Kizza Besigye’s frail appearance in Buganda Road Chief Magistrate Court on February 14th, 2025 has sparked widespread concern and outrage.
The four-time presidential candidate, who has been on a hunger strike whilst at Luzira Maximum prison for a week, looked weak and struggled to breathe, prompting emotional reactions from his allies.
Despite Uganda Prisons’ claims that Besigye is in good health, his associates, and physical looks paint a different picture.
Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura described Besigye’s condition as “visibly unwell” and “gasping for air.”
Many who attended the court hearing struggled to hold back tears, including Besigye’s aide, Ronald Muhinda, who was overcome with emotion.
Via his X formerly twitter handle, Muhinda launched a scathing attack on President Museveni and his son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, criticizing their handling of Besigye’s case.
Besigye’s detention has raised questions about the implementation of a Supreme Court ruling that declared on January 31, 2025, that civilians could not be tried in military courts.
Despite this ruling, Besigye remains on remand, charged with treachery before the military court, and his continued detention has reignited concerns over judicial independence and political freedoms in Uganda.
Political analyst Yusuf Sserunkuma warned that Besigye’s continued detention could have serious consequences.
“Whoever is calling the shots to continue incarcerating Dr. Kizza Besigye is risking all of us,” he wrote, emphasizing that Besigye is not the enemy, but rather a political opponent who deserves fair treatment.
Besigye’s case has also drawn attention to the plight of the veteran politician and Democratic Alliance (DA) promoter, Samuel Lubega Mukaaku, the retired Colonel’s co-accused in this particular case who is currently out on bail. Both men are facing charges related to their political activities, highlighting the ongoing struggles for political freedom in Uganda.
The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has been monitoring Besigye’s case and has expressed concerns about his treatment and detention after emphasizing the importance of upholding human rights and the rule of law in Uganda.
As Besigye’s health continues to deteriorate, his supporters are growing increasingly anxious thus calling for his immediate release and for the government to respect the Supreme Court’s ruling. The international community is also watching Besigye’s case closely, with many organizations and individuals expressing concern about his treatment and detention.
Amid this crisis, Besigye’s allies are urging the government to take a step back and reconsider its actions.
The matter was adjourned to 20th, February 2025 when the trial magistrate would make a ruling on whether Besigye should be allowed to get bail afresh or not.