Uganda Today Edition: Dr. Kizza Besigye Reportedly Arrested in Nairobi and Detained in Kampala, Family Demands Immediate Release
November 20, 2024 – Kampala, Uganda
Dr. Kizza Besigye, a prominent Ugandan political activisit and former opposition leader, has reportedly been arrested and detained under unclear circumstances, sparking outrage from his family and supporters. According to his wife, Winnie Byanyima, who is also the Executive Director of UNAIDS, Dr. Besigye was taken into custody last Saturday while attending a book launch in Nairobi for Kenyan opposition leader Hon. Martha Karua.
In a public statement shared on her social media platforms, Ms. Byanyima expressed deep concern over her husband’s fate and called for his immediate release. “I request the government of Uganda to release my husband Dr. Kizza Besigye from where he is being held immediately,” she stated. Ms. Byanyima revealed that Dr. Besigye was allegedly “kidnapped” during his stay in Nairobi and has since been transferred to a military detention facility in Kampala.
“We, his family and his lawyers, demand to see him. He is not a soldier. Why is he being held in a military jail?” Ms. Byanyima questioned, highlighting the perceived illegitimacy of his detention. Her demands have drawn significant attention, with several prominent figures, including Hon. Martha Karua, expressing solidarity.
Dr. Besigye’s arrest is particularly controversial due to his civilian status and long history of political activism. Over the years, he has been a vocal critic of President Yoweri Museveni’s government, frequently clashing with the authorities over issues of democracy, human rights, and governance. His detention in a military facility has raised questions regarding due process and transparency, with critics arguing that such a move is aimed at silencing dissent.
Social media has since been flooded with calls for Dr. Besigye’s release, and the hashtag #FreeBesigye has begun to trend across platforms. Hon. Martha Karua, the host of the event where Dr. Besigye was last seen, has joined the chorus of voices demanding his freedom.
“I was honored to have Dr. Besigye at my book launch. His arrest is a violation of his rights, and I stand with his family in demanding his immediate release,” Karua tweeted.
There has been no official statement from the Ugandan government regarding Dr. Besigye’s detention or the circumstances that led to his arrest. However, sources close to his family indicate that his lawyers are making efforts to ascertain his location and legal status.
The detention has also renewed international attention on Uganda’s political climate, with activists and human rights organizations closely monitoring the unfolding situation. Winnie Byanyima’s appeal has put a spotlight on the Museveni administration, with demands for clarity on the reasons behind Dr. Besigye’s arrest and his treatment in custody.
As of now, the Ugandan authorities have neither confirmed nor denied Ms. Byanyima’s claims, leaving many questions unanswered. Dr. Besigye’s family and supporters remain vigilant, hoping to secure his release and ensure that he is afforded his full legal rights.
The story is still developing, and Uganda Today will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Chris Kato for www.ugandatoday.co.ug