By Aggrey Baba
In the words of an old saying, “A sick man can hide many things, but not his illness,” and Dr. Kizza Besigye’s condition in court on Friday, Jan 14 spoke volumes. Despite a recent Supreme Court order for his release, Besigye, the four-time presidential candidate, appeared frail and gasped for air, causing a stir among his supporters.
The veteran politician has been in detention since November 16 of last year, facing charges of treason.
Although the Supreme Court ruled that civilians should not be tried in military courts, Besigye remains behind bars, and the delay in his release has left many questioning the justice system’s independence.
At Buganda Road Chief Magistrate Court, Besigye’s weakened state, a week into an alleged hunger strike (which Uganda Prisons denies), was heartbreaking to witness.
His allies, visibly emotional, struggled to hold back tears. Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura shared her distress on social media, describing his condition as “painful” and “hard to take in.”
Besigye’s aide, Ronald Muhinda, also expressed his sorrow, noting how painful it was to see his respected leader in such a condition. “I refuse to visit him in prison because I hate to see him in yellow uniform,” he posted. “Seeing him like this today broke me.”
Uganda Prisons maintains that Besigye is not on a hunger strike, asserting he is in good health at Luzira Prison and receiving proper care. However, his supporters disagree, claiming otherwise.
Besigye’s continued detention, despite the court ruling, raises serious concerns about Uganda’s political and judicial freedoms.
Political analyst Yusuf Sserunkuma cautioned that those responsible for keeping Besigye incarcerated are playing a dangerous game. “This is risky gambling,” he warned. “Dr. Besigye is not the enemy. He is unwell, and these games must stop.”
The situation has ignited wider fears about the state of judicial independence and political freedom in the country.
Besigye’s health continues to decline, and his supporters demand his release, urging the authorities to respect the Supreme Court’s decision and end his prolonged detention. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
