Youth loyal to the opposition People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) in Rukungiri District have issued a seven-day ultimatum to the government, demanding the release of veteran opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye from Luzira Prison.

The ultimatum was delivered during a peaceful protest held on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, in Rukungiri Municipality.

Protesters, led by Boaz Kamusiime, the Deputy Speaker of Rukungiri Municipality and PFF District Youth Chairperson marched through Republic Road and Karegyesa Road, chanting slogans and carrying placards that called for the immediate release of Dr. Besigye and other political detainees.

Kamusiime decried what he termed as the government’s continued persecution of opposition voices and warned that the situation could escalate if the demand is ignored.

“Dr. Besigye has endured eight months in detention without conviction. This is not just a legal matter; it is a human rights crisis,” Kamusiime said.

She said; “We demand his release by August 6. The government must act or we shall respond through all legal and peaceful means available to us.”

The group also called for the release of Obeid Lutale, another opposition figure facing charges, ahead of a scheduled court appearance on August 16, 2025.

Prominent opposition mobiliser Ingrid Turinawe Kamatenete, a former aspirant for the Rukungiri Municipality parliamentary seat, echoed the demand, warning of mounting frustration among supporters.

“Enough is enough. Dr. Besigye committed no crime. This country must stop treating dissent as treason. His only offence, if any, is speaking truth to power,” Turinawe said.

Other youth leaders present included Rukungiri Municipality Youth Councillor David Ainebyona and activist Twineomujuni Mosine, both of whom condemned what they described as state-sponsored intimidation of political opponents.

The protest, though peaceful, reflects growing unease within opposition circles over what they allege is the weaponization of the justice system against government critics.

Dr. Besigye, a four-time presidential contender and prominent voice in Ugandan opposition politics, has been held at Luzira Prison since November 2024.

No official response has yet been issued by the government or security agencies regarding the youth-led ultimatum.