EDITOR
Renowned human rights activist and former priest of Kitanga Parish, Rev. Fr. Gaetano Batanyenda, has broken his three-year silence to demand the immediate release of detained opposition leader Rtd. Dr. Kiiza Besigye.
Addressing the press in Kabale town on Thursday, the 80-year-old activist criticized the Ugandan government for defying a Supreme Court ruling that deemed Besigye’s imprisonment at Luzira Maximum Prison illegal. He condemned what he described as a deliberate act by President Yoweri Museveni’s government to keep the opposition leader behind bars despite the highest court’s directive for his release.
Besigye and his aide, Obeid Lutare, were arrested in November 2024 and charged with treason and possession of military hardware by the General Court Martial. The Supreme Court later ruled that the military tribunal had no jurisdiction over civilians, yet Besigye remains incarcerated. His health is reportedly deteriorating due to a hunger strike he began in protest of his detention.
Fr. Gaetano did not hold back in his criticism of the government, particularly President Museveni and Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba. He accused Muhoozi of allegedly threatening Besigye with death by hanging, questioning the government’s relentless pursuit of the opposition leader.
“I wonder if Museveni and his son are angrier than God because of Besigye’s purported sins. What did Besigye do to Muhoozi that warrants death by hanging?” Fr. Gaetano asked, his voice filled with indignation.
Quoting Psalm 130, he urged Besigye’s supporters, friends, and family to pray for divine intervention while continuing to resist intimidation. He also praised Archbishop Samuel Kazimba Mugalu and other religious leaders who have spoken out against Besigye’s detention, urging all faith leaders to take a stand against the injustice.
“Religious leaders are called to serve and protect the flock entrusted to them by God, and Besigye is part of that flock. Silence in the face of injustice will not go unanswered by God,” Fr. Gaetano declared.
Meanwhile, President Museveni responded to the calls for Besigye’s release by urging patience, stating that the case is being transferred from the Court Martial to civilian courts.
“If you are innocent, why not demand a speedy trial to prove it, instead of calling for bail and forgiveness as if serious crimes deserve a holiday?” Museveni posted on his X handle.
The continued detention of Besigye has sparked national and international concern, with growing pressure on the government to respect the Supreme Court ruling and uphold the rule of law. As the legal battle drags on, supporters of Besigye remain determined in their call for justice.
