Detained Ugandan opposition politician, Kizza Besigye, has been moved to the hospital after his health rapidly declined during an ongoing hunger strike.
The move came after Besigye, who has been imprisoned since November 2024, refused food in protest of his detention and the conditions he faces.
Besigye, the prominent leader of the opposition party, was arrested under controversial circumstances, allegedly kidnapped from Kenya and returned to Uganda.
He is currently facing charges in the military’s General Court Martial for offenses, including illegal weapons possession. His critics argue that these charges are politically motivated, a claim that has further fueled public unrest.
Besigye began his hunger strike on February 10, demanding better treatment and an end to his indefinite detention. Reports indicate that his condition deteriorated sharply over the past few days, prompting authorities to move him to a hospital for medical treatment.
His wife, Winnie Byanyima, expressed grave concern over her husband’s health, describing the situation as dire.
“I am very worried about Kizza. He is a human being, not a political tool,” she said.
Human rights organizations have condemned his treatment and are calling for immediate action, including his release and proper access to medical care.
In a significant move, the Ugandan government has agreed to transfer Besigye’s case from the military court to a civilian court following a recent Supreme Court ruling declaring that prosecuting civilians in military courts is unconstitutional.
However, his supporters remain skeptical, demanding that Besigye be freed immediately and allowed to return to his political activities.
The Ugandan government faces mounting pressure from both international and local bodies to address the situation and ensure the well-being of the opposition leader.
Read also:- Uganda’s Kizza Besigye jailed after alleged Nairobi kidnap
