Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye was rushed to the hospital after his health severely deteriorated due to a hunger strike. A longtime critic of President Yoweri Museveni, Besigye has been in detention at a high-security facility in Kampala since November. His lawyers allege that he was “kidnapped” in Kenya and forcibly returned to Uganda. Besigye faces multiple charges in the military’s General Court Martial (GCM), including illegal weapons possession.
Health Condition Worsens
Besigye’s ally, Francis Mwijukye, confirmed on social media that he was taken to a clinic at Bugolobi Village Mall under heavy security. Mwijukye reported that Besigye was being wheeled into the clinic. Local broadcaster NTV also reported that the area was under tight security, and a family member said, “He is not in a good situation, the situation is bad.”
Government Response
In response, Information Minister Chris Baryomunsi stated that the government was expediting Besigye’s case transfer to civilian courts. This decision came after Uganda’s Supreme Court ruled that civilians should not be prosecuted in military courts, calling such trials unconstitutional.
Public Outrage and Calls for Release
Public anger has been mounting over Besigye’s treatment. Opposition leader Bobi Wine and the Ugandan Medical Doctors Association voiced their concern and demanded his release. The outcry intensified after Besigye appeared frail in court on Friday, struggling to walk and speak. His lawyers had previously expressed concerns about his deteriorating health.
