
“We passed by Luzira Upper Prison to check on Dr. Kizza Besigye who has been on a hunger strike to protest against his illegal detention. We were not able to see him because he is very frail and weak. He sent a message to us through Hajj Obed Lutale Kamulegeya who briefed us on his worrying state of health, to a point that he collapsed this morning. He demands for his freedom, and emphasises that if the state has any legitimate case against him, he should be tried in a civilian court!” (Bobi Wine, 17.02.2025).
“We in FDC, We are gravely concerned about the deteriorating health condition of our founding President, Dr. Besigye under prison authorities. Based on reports and disturbing visuals from his recent court appearance, it is evident that Dr. Besigye is quite physically sick and suffering from health issues that have significantly deteriorated over time. We are aware that he was yesterday taken to a medical facility at Bugolobi Village Mall for urgent treatment under a very heavy security deployment. He was unable to move and was taken to that facility in a wheelchair. The FDC calls upon right thinking Ugandans, the opposition, the, Media, human rights and civic activists to rise up and be counted in this justified pursuit of fighting for freedom and justice as well as raising concerns about Dr. Besigye’s safety and well-being” (Forum for Democratic Change, 17.02.2025).
The question about the legality of the detention of Dr. Kizza Besigye is out of the window. The case of a civilian in a pending case at the General Court Martial (GCM). That one should have been shattered a long time ago and shouldn’t have been a thing from the on-set. However, there are more dire consequences going on.
That he was yesterday taken swiftly to the “The Clinic” at Bugolobi Village Mall and now today collapsing. He is in a deteriorating health condition and needs medical treatment. That is undeniable at this moment. We should be concerned about the well being and his needs.
It is good that Bobi Wine and other Opposition Leaders tried to access him today. Nevertheless, they didn’t gain access to him. Meanwhile, we know NRM Minister Chris Baryomunsi was able to do so yesterday. That’s before the reports of him being taken to “The Clinic” and was getting some treatment for a little while.
Now we don’t know what is happening and Besigye’s life is in danger. Right now isn’t the time to wait for the authorities to act. Neither is it time for the slow mechanisms of the Judiciary and the other parts of Law Enforcement. Because of all of these are slowing the process and won’t come to the aide of Besigye.
Dr. Kizza Besigye needs to be in a hospital and get proper treatment. Not be behind bars and awaiting his continued demise. That his collapsing and not able to meet visitors is telling everyone how dire things are. This isn’t the moment to sweet talk and let the system work. No, this is the time for haste and to save the life. That’s if the Prison Services and the Authorities values life. The life is on the line. There is no time to wait or be concerned, be worried or think you can discuss it.
Now is the time to act and do it with haste. Besigye needs medical treatment and health care professionals to oversee his needs. That’s what Besigye needs and he doesn’t need prison guards blocking his every step or taking away his freedom. No, Besigye needs doctors and nursers to monitor him. That’s what he needs and as soon as possible. Peace.








