Kizza Besigye Appears Frail in Court Amid Calls for His Release

Kizza Besigye, a leading Ugandan opposition figure, appeared in court on February 19, 2025, looking frail. His continued detention since November sparks concerns about his health and calls for his release amidst fears of escalating unrest. While authorities review charges against him, political tensions mount as the nation approaches the presidential elections.

Kizza Besigye, a prominent Ugandan opposition figure and four-time presidential candidate, appeared frail during a court session in Kampala on February 19, 2025. His lawyers were attempting to secure his release, but a judge noted that he was too unwell to attend the proceedings. Detained since November, Besigye was taken back to a maximum-security prison after the brief court appearance.

The public and his supporters are increasingly concerned about Besigye’s health, and there are calls for his release due to fears that harm to him could ignite unrest in Uganda. His family reports that he has started a hunger strike to protest his continued detention, arguing that military tribunals should not have jurisdiction over civilians, as ruled by Uganda’s Supreme Court.

The Ugandan authorities are currently reviewing the evidence against Besigye to potentially bring charges against him in a civilian court. His continued detention, alongside calls from the Commonwealth and Amnesty International for his release, has raised serious legal and human rights concerns about Uganda’s adherence to the rule of law.

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has indicated that Besigye will face trial instead of being released, citing serious allegations against him, including attempts to undermine national peace and security. Although the specific accusations remain unsubstantiated, political tensions are high as Uganda approaches the 2026 presidential elections.

Besigye, who once served as Museveni’s military doctor, has been a longstanding critic of Uganda’s ruling government. With concerns over a potential bloodless coup to install Museveni’s son as the next leader, political analysts are watching Besigye’s case closely, considering its implications for Uganda’s future political landscape.

Kizza Besigye’s ongoing detention is garnering significant attention both locally and internationally, raising concerns over human rights violations and the rule of law in Uganda. As calls for his release escalate, the political climate remains tense ahead of the upcoming presidential elections, with many fearing what his treatment and potential trial may signify for the country’s political future.

Original Source: apnews.com