Uganda Reverses Military Trial for Opposition Leader Kizza Besigye Amid Health Concerns

Ugandian Opposition leaders, Photo: The Hoima Post

February 17, 2025 Hour: 10:49 pm

Uganda has reversed its decision to try prominent opposition leader Kizza Besigye in a military court, citing his deteriorating health due to a hunger strike. Information Minister Chris Baryomunsi announced on Sunday that Besigye’s case would be transferred to a civilian court, ending the controversial plan that sparked national and international outcry.

The veteran opposition leader, charged with illegal firearm possession and threatening state security, has been imprisoned at Luzira Maximum Security Prison in Kampala since November. His lawyers claim he was kidnapped in Kenya and forcibly brought to Uganda.

VIDEO: Hon. Muwanga Kivumbi speaks to the opposition’s 48-hour ultimatum, calling for the release of political prisoners, including Dr. Kizza Besigye, whose health is reportedly deteriorating in Luzira Prison.#NBSLiveAt9 #NBSUpdates pic.twitter.com/pAYpZrVl5n
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Health Concerns and Hunger Strike

Besigye, who has been on hunger strike in protest of his detention, was temporarily moved to a medical clinic on Sunday after appearing frail and struggling to walk during a court appearance on Friday. His wife, Winnie Byanyima, expressed distrust in the government’s handling of his condition, warning on social media that they would be held “fully accountable for any harm” that comes to him.

Political and Legal Controversy

The reversal follows public outcry and condemnation from rights groups and opposition lawmakers, with Amnesty International branding Besigye’s detention a “travesty of justice”. The Ugandan government initially planned to proceed with the military trial despite a Supreme Court ruling deeming it unconstitutional.

Background and Political Context

A longtime critic of President Yoweri Museveni, Besigye has run against the incumbent in four presidential elections, alleging fraud and voter intimidation after each loss. He has been arrested numerous times over the years, including in 2022 on charges of inciting violence.

Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986, faces growing accusations of human rights violations against opposition figures, including illegal detentions, torture, and extrajudicial killings. However, Ugandan authorities deny these allegations, asserting that all detainees receive due process.

The transfer of Besigye’s case to a civilian court is seen as a significant concession amid mounting pressure and scrutiny over Uganda’s human rights record.