Ugandan opposition politician Kizza Besigye, a long-time critic of President Yoweri Museveni, has been hospitalized following a hunger strike that left his health in critical condition.
The 67-year-old politician, who has been in detention since November, was transferred from a high-security facility in Kampala to a health clinic at Bugolobi Village Mall on Sunday.
Besigye, visibly weak and unable to walk without assistance, was pushed in a wheelchair due to his frailty, according to Francis Mwijukye, a lawmaker who is allied with Besigye.
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Besigye’s health has rapidly deteriorated since he began his hunger strike last week to protest his treatment in detention. His lawyers and supporters have raised alarm over his condition, with one family member describing his situation as “bad” in an interview with local media.
Besigye’s supporters have been vocal about his plight, using social media platforms to call for his release and demand access to proper medical care.
Political Tensions and the Legal Battle: Besigye’s Imprisonment and Military Court Charges
Besigye, who has long been an outspoken critic of President Museveni’s government, was arrested and allegedly “kidnapped” in Kenya in November.
He was forcibly returned to Uganda and charged in the military’s General Court Martial (GCM) on multiple counts, including illegal weapons possession. His lawyers argue that his detention is politically motivated, as Besigye has consistently challenged Museveni’s regime.
The Ugandan government has faced mounting pressure over Besigye’s detention. In response to growing public outcry, Information Minister Chris Baryomunsi announced that the government is fast-tracking the transfer of Besigye’s case to civilian courts.
This move comes after Uganda’s Supreme Court ruled last month that it is unconstitutional for civilians to be prosecuted in military courts.
Public Outcry and International Attention: Calls for Besigye’s Release Grow Louder
The public response to Besigye’s hunger strike has been swift and intense. Prominent Ugandan figures, including fellow opposition leader Bobi Wine and the Uganda Medical Doctors Association, have taken to social media to condemn the government’s treatment of Besigye.
The outrage grew after Besigye’s appearance in court last Friday, where he appeared frail, struggling to walk and speak. His supporters have demanded that the government release him immediately and allow his doctors to provide him with unrestricted medical care.
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