Summary
Kizza Besigye, a Ugandan opposition leader, is reported to be critically ill in detention. His party claims he has severe stomach pain and dehydration, while Ugandan prison officials say his health is stable. Besigye has been detained since November 2024 on charges including treason.
Key Facts
- Kizza Besigye is a veteran opposition leader in Uganda, detained since November 2024.
- Besigye was charged with treason, illegal firearm possession, and threatening national security; he denies these charges.
- His party, People's Front for Freedom (PFF), says his health is critically deteriorating and accuses the government of denying him proper medical care.
- Uganda's prison authorities state Besigye is under normal medical care and deny that his health is critical.
- Besigye was reportedly taken to a private medical facility in Kampala with heavy security.
- His wife, Winnie Byanyima, reported symptoms of severe stomach pain and dehydration.
- Calls for Besigye's release on medical grounds have increased from family, opposition groups, and human rights advocates.
- President Yoweri Museveni blames Besigye's legal team for trial delays.
