Dr Kizza Besigye
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Uganda’s opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye is in deteriorating health, raising fresh concern over the welfare of one of the country’s most prominent political figures as he remains in detention.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday morning, the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) said Besigye’s condition had become “critical,” accusing government agencies and prison authorities of denying him access to adequate medical care and violating his constitutional rights. The party warned that his continued incarceration under the prevailing circumstances could amount to cruel and inhumane treatment.
PFF revealed that the 69-year-old opposition stalwart was rushed late on Monday night from Luzira Prison to a private medical facility in Bugolobi under heavy security. While details of his condition were not disclosed, the party said the emergency transfer underscored the seriousness of his declining health.
“It is a tragedy that a man who has dedicated his life to the health and freedom of others is being denied his own right to medical dignity,” the statement read. The party demanded that Besigye’s personal doctors and family be granted immediate and unrestricted access, adding: “We hold the regime and the prison authorities fully accountable for his well-being.”
Dr Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and one of President Yoweri Museveni’s most persistent political rivals, has been in detention since November 2024. He faces charges including treason, linked to allegations that he and others conspired over a prolonged period, both in Uganda and abroad, to overthrow the government by force.
The government has consistently maintained that due process is being followed. However, opposition figures argue that the charges are politically motivated and intended to sideline Besigye ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Concerns about his health have mounted in recent months. Besigye has reportedly been in and out of hospital, with supporters citing chronic hypertension and other age-related complications. They argue that prison conditions have worsened his ailments and placed his life at risk.
Human rights organisations and international observers have previously urged Ugandan authorities to respect the health rights of detainees, particularly elderly political prisoners. PFF echoed those calls, appealing to the public to remain vigilant and prayerful as the situation unfolds.
“We ask all compatriots and lovers of freedom to keep Dr Besigye in your prayers,” the party said, promising regular updates from its teams on the ground.
By Tuesday afternoon, officials from the Uganda Prisons Service and the Uganda Police Force had not issued a public response to the latest developments.
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