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Ugandan opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye has been formally charged with treason, sparking renewed concerns about political freedoms and human rights in the country.
The 68-year-old politician appeared in court on Friday, February 21, 2025, looking frail and seated in a wheelchair. His health has reportedly deteriorated due to a hunger strike he began on February 12, protesting his detention.
Dr. Besigye’s legal troubles date back to November 2024, when he and his aide, Obed Lutale, were allegedly taken from Nairobi, Kenya, and brought back to Uganda under unclear circumstances. Following their return, they were arraigned before a military court on charges of illegal possession of firearms and treason. However, a Supreme Court ruling on January 31 declared that civilians should not be tried in military courts, prompting the transfer of their case to a civilian court.
In the recent hearing, the prosecution laid out new charges of treason and conspiracy to commit treason, alleging that Dr. Besigye had been involved in efforts to undermine the government of President Yoweri Museveni. Magistrate Esther Nyadoi, presiding over the case, stated that her court lacked the authority to hear such charges, which fall under the jurisdiction of higher courts. As a result, Dr. Besigye was remanded in custody, with his next court appearance set for March 7.
His legal team also requested that he be transferred to a hospital for medical care, citing his deteriorating health. However, the court denied the request, stating that such decisions were beyond its authority. Dr. Besigye’s supporters and human rights organizations have voiced concerns over his well-being, urging authorities to ensure he receives the medical attention he needs.
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International reactions have been swift. The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, called for Dr. Besigye’s immediate release, emphasizing the need for Uganda to uphold human rights standards. Amnesty International also condemned his detention, stating that his alleged abduction violated international law and fair trial rights.
President Museveni, in power since 1986, has dismissed calls for Dr. Besigye’s release, insisting that the charges against him must be addressed in court. His critics, however, argue that the case is politically motivated, aimed at weakening the opposition ahead of next year’s elections.
Dr. Besigye, a longtime critic of the government and a former presidential candidate, has been arrested numerous times over the years.
