EDITOR
Four days after his mysterious disappearance in Nairobi, Kenya, veteran Ugandan opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye has been formally presented before the General Court Martial in Makindye to face charges yet to be disclosed.
The military police detainee van carrying Besigye arrived at the court premises at 1:00 PM, three hours past the scheduled time. Despite the somber circumstances, Besigye, dressed in a navy-blue suit and a pink-grey striped shirt, greeted supporters with his trademark two-finger salute, symbolizing his party’s values of hope and resilience.
The prominent opposition leader was accompanied by Obeid Lutale, a close associate. Both men were reportedly apprehended in Nairobi after attending the book launch of Kenyan opposition leader Martha Karua. This prompted an outcry from Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, who on Tuesday night alleged that her husband had been abducted and demanded his immediate, unconditional release.
“This is a blatant violation of human rights,” Byanyima stated, calling for accountability and transparency regarding the detention.
Dozens of supporters and well-wishers camped outside the court martial since morning in a show of solidarity, demanding justice for the four-time presidential candidate and staunch critic of Uganda’s government.
The specifics of the charges against Dr. Besigye remain undisclosed, with court officials promising to provide details in subsequent sessions. The case has sparked intense debate, with human rights advocates raising concerns about the implications for political freedom and rule of law in Uganda.
Dr. Besigye, a former ally turned rival of President Yoweri Museveni, has a history of frequent arrests and legal battles over his political activities. His supporters argue that the latest arrest is a calculated attempt to silence dissent ahead of the 2026 elections.
Further updates on the proceedings and the charges against Besigye are awaited as the situation unfolds.
