By Aggrey Baba
Dr Kizza Besigye’s family is pressing for his release on bail as reports emerge of a government-backed effort to resolve his treason case, putting his health and personal consent at the centre of the unfolding developments.
Winnie Byanyima, wife of Besigye, says the family has submitted a fifth bail application and wants the High Court to schedule a hearing, insisting that his immediate need is medical care, not an arrangement negotiated on his behalf.
Byanyima maintains that her husband has neither entered negotiations nor agreed to a plea bargain, and that he continues to deny the treason charges against him as trumped up.
Her position comes as Gen. Salim Saleh, reportedly oversees efforts to explore a possible dialogue in the case, which has kept the four time presidential candidate in Luzira while proceedings continue before the High Court.
According to details published by Weekend Vision, a six-member committee headed by Prof. Ogenga Otunnu began consultations about a month ago, with Gen Saleh serving in an advisory role. The team is reportedly examining options for resolving the matter, which also involves Besigye’s aide, Obeid Lutale, and UPDF officer Capt. Denis Oyaa Oola.
On August 25 Gen Muhoozi announced that the President had assigned Saleh responsibility for handling the Besigye matter, making it to gain public attention. Information Minister Justine Kasule Lumumba later confirmed that a team had been established to examine the process.
However, Besigye’s position could prove decisive in determining whether the initiative makes progress.
PFF’s Harold Kaija says Besigye previously warned that nobody should negotiate his release without his consent, while veteran journalist John Kakande has also questioned whether the opposition leader would accept terms reached by other people.
Other political figures have welcomed the prospect of reconciliation, with former MP Odonga Otto saying he would urge Museveni to extend it to Besigye and National Unity Platform members. Kampala Central Division mayor Salim Uhuru (NRM) and Bukoto Central MP Richard Sebamala of DP have also argued for a political resolution.
Besigye and his two co-accused deny the allegations against them, including treason-related charges. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
