The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating health of Rtd. Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye, who remains incarcerated at Luzira Prison. Following a visit to the prison on February 17, 2025, the UHRC reported that Besigye appeared visibly weak, sparking renewed calls for swift judicial action to address his plight.
The UHRC’s concerns echo those of the Uganda Medical Association (UMA), which has been advocating for Besigye’s immediate release on medical grounds. The UMA has warned that any delay in providing Besigye with specialized medical attention could lead to irreversible health consequences.
Besigye’s continued detention has been marred by controversy, with the Uganda Law Society (ULS) condemning his military prosecution as a blatant disregard for legal processes. The ULS has argued that the General Court Martial lacks jurisdiction to hear Besigye’s case, as he is a retired military officer facing charges related to activities outside Uganda.
The UHRC’s intervention has added weight to the growing chorus of voices demanding Besigye’s release. The Commission has urged the relevant government authorities to expedite the remaining judicial processes in line with the Supreme Court’s decision. This call for action underscores the need for a fair and timely resolution to Besigye’s case, which has dragged on for months.
As the debate surrounding Besigye’s detention continues to simmer, concerns about the broader implications for human rights in Uganda have come to the fore. The ULS has warned that the government’s actions set a “dangerous precedent” for state-sponsored impunity, undermining the rule of law and threatening the freedoms of all Ugandans.
In the midst of this turmoil, the UHRC’s visit to Luzira Prison serves as a poignant reminder of the need for vigilance in protecting human rights. As Besigye’s health hangs in the balance, the Commission’s call for swift judicial action offers a glimmer of hope for a fair and just resolution to his case.
The international community has also been urged to take notice of Besigye’s plight, with the ULS calling on the Kenyan authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding his alleged abduction from Kenya. The incident has sparked concerns about the disregard for regional legal obligations and state sovereignty.
As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: the fate of Kizza Besigye has become a rallying cry for human rights advocates in Uganda and beyond. The UHRC’s intervention has added momentum to the calls for Besigye’s release, and it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the growing pressure. One thing is certain, however: the world is watching, and the Ugandan authorities must be held accountable for upholding the human rights of all citizens, including Rtd. Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye.