The Uganda Prisons Service (UPS) has strongly denied allegations of inhumane treatment of opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye, currently detained at Luzira Upper Maximum-Security Prison, calling the claims “false” and “baseless.”

In a statement, issued on June 20, 2025, Frank Baine Mayanja, the spokesperson for UPS and Senior Commissioner of Prisons, refuted claims that the facility is infested with bed bugs, a key allegation made by critics.

“These reports lack factual consistency and have no basis in truth,” Baine stated.

This statement came in response to mounting public concern and accusations from Besigye’s family and opposition leaders, alleging poor conditions and mistreatment in detention.

Baine also addressed the contradictory reports surrounding Besigye’s treatment in detention, including claims that he was being held in permanent isolation while also sharing a ward with 15 other inmates.

Baine assured the public that no detainee, including Besigye, is subject to treatment that contravenes the established principles of human dignity and respect.

Dr Kizza Besigye, a four time presidential candidate and long-time government critic, has frequently clashed with authorities over his activism.

His latest detention has sparked renewed scrutiny of prison conditions in Uganda.