Several opposition political parties and civil society organizations in Uganda have expressed concern and solidarity with veteran opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye following reports that his health is deteriorating while in detention.
Parties including the National Unity Platform (NUP), People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), and the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) have appealed to the government to release Besigye and allow him access to proper medical care from his personal doctors. They say his condition requires urgent and specialized attention.
NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu said he was deeply troubled by reports of Besigye’s worsening health. He noted that Besigye has allegedly been denied adequate medical care while in custody and called on the government to act responsibly. Kyagulanyi said the opposition stands with Besigye and hopes for his recovery.
The PFF party, which Besigye founded after leaving FDC, said that while opposing the government has come at a great personal cost to their leader, his life and health must come first. In a statement shared on the party’s official X account, PFF said it would not remain silent while Besigye’s well-being is at risk.
FDC also raised concern over Besigye’s continued detention, calling for his immediate release so he can seek medical treatment.
Uganda Prisons spokesperson Frank Baine said Besigye was taken for a routine medical checkup. However, PFF leaders dismissed this explanation, saying it downplays the seriousness of his condition. They accused authorities of trying to hide the physical impact of his detention and criticized the continued demand for his court appearances despite his alleged weak state.
Dr. Besigye was arrested in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024, and later charged with treason and security-related offenses. Media reports indicate that the charges are linked to allegations of plotting to overthrow the Ugandan government by force, which is considered treason under the Constitution.
