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Opposition claims Besigye's health in critical condition
The health of detained Ugandan opposition figure Kizza Besigye has reached a "critical and deteriorating state," his party announced Tuesday, following his overnight transfer to a medical facility in Kampala under heavy security.
Conflicting accounts emerge over Besigye's condition
The People's Front for Freedom (PFF) stated Besigye, 69, was taken to a private clinic but did not disclose his specific ailments. Prison authorities, however, dismissed concerns, calling the visit a routine "general check-up."
"Kizza Besigye receives necessary treatment like other prisoners and he is fine. This morning he was doing his exercises."
Frank Baine, Uganda Prisons Service spokesman
The PFF rejected Baine's remarks, labeling them an attempt to "mask the physical toll" of Besigye's detention and insisting their leader is "seriously unwell."
Detention and charges
Besigye, a former personal physician to President Yoweri Museveni and a four-time presidential candidate, has been held since November 2024. He faces charges including treason (punishable by death), illegal firearm possession, and threatening national security-accusations he denies.
His associate Obeid Lutale was detained alongside him after both were forcibly returned from Kenya. A court denied them bail for the fourth time last month, ruling it was premature as they had not yet entered pleas.
Family and allies raise alarm
Besigye's wife, Winnie Byanyima-a human rights advocate and head of UNAids-told local media her husband suffered from severe stomach pain, fever, and dehydration. "He was shaking and unable to walk. He refused treatment from prison authorities," she said.
Opposition leader Bobi Wine, who contested the recent presidential election, expressed solidarity with Besigye, citing concerns over restricted medical access. "We pray for his recovery," Wine posted on X.
History of health struggles in detention
This is not Besigye's first health crisis in Luzira Prison. In February 2025, he was reported critically ill after a hunger strike protesting his detention. The PFF accused authorities of denying him proper care, calling it a violation of his rights.
"It is a tragedy that a man who has dedicated his life to the health and freedom of others is being denied his own right to medical dignity."
PFF statement
The party demanded Besigye's personal doctors and family be granted immediate access to provide independent care.
Political context
Besigye, who last ran for president in 2016, has accused the government of political persecution. President Museveni, in power since 1986, won re-election last week with 72% of the vote, while Wine-Besigye's successor as opposition leader-received 25% and rejected the results as fraudulent.
Museveni blamed Besigye's legal team for trial delays prolonging his detention. Calls for Besigye's release on medical grounds have intensified among human rights groups and his supporters.
