By Aggrey Baba
It’s said that, “A sick man does not argue with the doctor,” but what happens when the doctor is the one keeping him in chains?
The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has raised alarm over the continued detention of its founding leader, Dr. Kizza Besigye, warning that his health is worsening behind bars.
During the party’s weekly press briefing on Monday, February 17, Mulindwa Walid Lubega, the Deputy Secretary for Publicity, did not mince words. “Dr. Besigye was taken to a medical facility at Bugolobi Village Mall, heavily guarded as if he were a dangerous criminal. We demand his immediate and unconditional release,” he stated firmly.
FDC argues that the clinic where Besigye was taken lacks the capacity to handle his condition and insists that he should be allowed to seek specialized treatment at a facility of his choice.
They cite Article 8A(1) of the Constitution, which guarantees healthcare as a fundamental human right.
However, the government has downplayed these concerns. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister for ICT and National Guidance, dismissed fears about Besigye’s health, saying on UBC TV that his visit was only for routine medical checks.
The opposition party is not convinced. They have called on the government to take responsibility for Besigye’s welfare and respect the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on fair treatment of detainees.
Besigye, along with his aide, Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya, was arrested in November and charged before the General Court Martial with illegal possession of firearms and treachery.
But as the saying goes, “No matter how long the night, the sun will rise.” And FDC insists that justice must prevail and that their former leader should not suffer behind prison walls. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
