Life of Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye in danger, wife warns

The life of Uganda’s veteran opposition figure, Kizza Besigye, is reportedly in danger. His wife, Winnie Byanyima, issued a statement after visiting him in prison, raising serious concern over his declining condition.

Byanyima said Besigye, 69, is extremely weak and struggling to walk. She added that he suffers significant pain in his legs and has an infection that is worsening.

Wife Describes Rapid Decline in Prison

According to Byanyima, Besigye was rushed overnight to a medical facility after his condition sharply deteriorated. He was later returned to Luzira Maximum Security Prison.

“Dr Besigye told me he is finding it difficult to walk and is experiencing significant pain in his legs,” Byanyima said.

She described finding him seated on a plastic chair in a small room near his cell. Byanyima called for him to be transferred to a fully equipped hospital.

Prison Authorities Reject Health Claims

The Uganda Prison Service denied that Besigye’s health is critical. Spokesperson Frank Baine said the visit to a doctor was a routine check-up.

“Kizza Besigye receives medical care like other inmates and he is fine,” Baine said, noting that he had been exercising earlier.

Byanyima dismissed this statement as a cover-up. She insists that he needs proper medical care immediately.

Opposition and Rights Groups Demand Medical Care

Besigye has been in detention since November 2024, alongside his associate Obeid Lutale. Both were seized in Kenya and brought back to Uganda.

He faces charges in a military court, including treason and illegal possession of a firearm, all of which he denies. The People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) party has accused the authorities of denying him proper medical attention, calling it a violation of his basic rights.

“A man who dedicated his life to the health and freedom of others is being denied medical dignity,” the PFF said.

Opposition leader Bobi Wine also voiced concern over Besigye’s declining health, saying his access to medical care is limited.

Long Detention and Legal Battle Continue

This is not the first time Besigye has fallen ill in Luzira Prison. Last year, he reportedly became critically ill after a hunger strike demanding justice.

A court recently denied him bail for the fourth time, saying it was too early to release him since he had not yet entered his plea.

Growing Calls for Release on Medical Grounds

Family, opposition leaders, and human rights groups continue to call for Besigye’s release on medical grounds. President Yoweri Museveni, who has held power since 1986, recently won another term with 72% of the vote. His closest challenger, Bobi Wine, received 25% and rejected the results as fake, citing threats to his life.

As calls for Besigye’s medical release grow louder, his family and supporters stress that proper care is a matter of human dignity and life preservation.

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