The political tension in Uganda has reached a critical point as Dr. Kizza Besigye, the veteran opposition leader and four-time presidential candidate, was rushed to The Clinic at Bugolobi Village Mall.
Security forces maintained a heavy presence as Besigye, now significantly weakened by his prolonged hunger strike, arrived in a wheelchair to the third floor medical facility.
The situation has taken a particularly concerning turn as family members report being blindsided by the sudden developments.
“We received an unexpected request to bring Dr. Kizza Besigye’s personal doctor to visit him in detention – this coming after authorities had repeatedly denied him access is worrying,” revealed Edith Byanyima, speaking for the Byanyima family.
Standing alongside Olivia Byanyima, she delivered the sobering assessment that “the worst may be imminent.”
Medical Community Rallies Behind Their Colleague
In an unprecedented move, the Uganda Medical Association (UMA) has stepped forcefully into the fray. Dr. Herbert Luswata, the association’s president, emphasized their ethical obligations:
“As an association of professionals who swore to nurture and protect life, it is our responsibility to speak out in defense of our colleague’s health. Remaining silent while a fellow medical professional’s condition is questioned would be a betrayal of the very oath we took.”
Religious Leaders Join Mounting Pressure
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, has added his voice to the growing chorus of concern.
Speaking during the 48th Commemoration of Janani Luwum Day in Kitgum, he called for forgiveness and compassion, emphasizing the need for dialogue over confrontation. His intervention marks a significant escalation in public pressure for Besigye’s release.
Related: Fat Boy Mocks Besigye’s Hunger Strike as Fake
A History of Resistance
Besigye’s current detention is the latest chapter in a long history of political activism that has repeatedly put him at odds with President Yoweri Museveni’s government.
His decision to undertake a hunger strike while in custody, despite a Supreme Court ruling ordering his release, underscores the deep political tensions that continue to shape Uganda’s political landscape.
The presence of heavy security at the medical facility has raised additional concerns about access to proper medical care.
Buhweju County MP Francis Mwijukye’s confirmation of Besigye’s arrival in a wheelchair has only intensified public worry about the opposition leader’s condition.
Human rights activists have joined family members and political allies in demanding transparency about Besigye’s medical condition and immediate access to independent medical professionals.
The situation continues to evolve as pressure mounts on authorities to address both the legal and humanitarian aspects of his detention.
