On November 16, 2024, prominent Ugandan opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye was reportedly abducted in Nairobi, Kenya, and transferred to Uganda under circumstances that violate international human rights norms. His detention, trial before a military court, and deteriorating health due to a hunger strike have sparked national and global outrage. HAKI Africa stands in solidarity with all those advocating for justice and human rights in Uganda, as Besigye’s case highlights the urgent need to uphold fundamental freedoms and the rule of law.
The Ugandan Opposition Politician Dr Kizza Besigye kidnapped in Kenya
Besigye appearing in military court for trial
The Abduction and Military Trial
Besigye, a long-time critic of President Yoweri Museveni’s government, was in Nairobi attending a book launch for Kenyan politician Martha Karua when he was allegedly abducted. Despite the Kenyan government denying involvement, Uganda’s government admitted it was informed of his detention. Four days later, he was brought before a military court in Kampala and charged with illegal firearm possession and “soliciting military support to prejudice the security of defense forces.”
This move defied Uganda’s Supreme Court ruling that trying civilians in military courts is unconstitutional. The continued use of military courts to prosecute political opponents signals an alarming erosion of judicial independence and fair trial rights.
Human Rights Violations and Public Outcry
Besigye’s detention has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights organizations, political leaders, and civil society groups. Amnesty International described his imprisonment as a “travesty of justice,” while opposition figures decried it as another instance of Museveni’s regime suppressing dissent through unlawful arrests, enforced disappearances, and politically motivated trials.
Dr Kizze Besigye speaking out on constitutional amendment
After months of protests, on February 16, 2025, the Ugandan government announced that Besigye’s case would be transferred to a civilian court. However, this decision came only after he had embarked on a hunger strike, leading to his critical health deterioration.
Besigye’s Hunger Strike and Health Crisis
On February 11, Besigye initiated a hunger strike to protest his detention. His health rapidly declined, and he was rushed to a medical facility on February 16. His wife, Winnie Byanyima, publicly condemned government officials visiting him, calling them his “captors” rather than concerned parties. As of now, his condition remains dire, with doctors warning that prolonged starvation could lead to irreversible health complications.
The Broader Human Rights Context in Uganda
Besigye’s case is not isolated but part of a broader pattern of human rights abuses in Uganda. The Museveni government has frequently used security forces to intimidate, arrest, and prosecute opposition figures, journalists, and activists. Reports of arbitrary detentions, torture, and extrajudicial killings have become alarmingly common.
Despite constitutional protections, Uganda’s civic space has shrunk, with laws restricting press freedom, public assembly, and political participation. The international community must act decisively to pressure the Ugandan government to respect human rights and democratic principles.
HAKI Africa’s Stand and Call to Action
HAKI Africa condemns the illegal abduction and detention of Dr. Kizza Besigye. His case epitomizes the dangers faced by opposition figures and human rights defenders in Uganda and beyond. We call upon:
1. The Ugandan Government to immediately release Besigye and all political prisoners, respect judicial rulings, and cease the use of military courts to silence dissent.
2. The Kenyan Government to investigate the circumstances surrounding Besigye’s abduction and reaffirm its commitment to protecting political refugees and human rights defenders.
3. The African Union and International Community to exert pressure on Uganda to uphold democratic values, impose sanctions on individuals responsible for rights violations, and support civic freedoms.
4. Civil Society Organizations to amplify the call for justice, raise awareness, and demand accountability for human rights abuses.
Conclusion
The unlawful detention of Dr. Kizza Besigye is a stark reminder of the shrinking democratic space in Uganda. It is imperative for human rights defenders, legal practitioners, and international actors to remain vigilant and vocal in opposing authoritarian practices. HAKI Africa will continue advocating for justice, amplifying the voices of the oppressed, and standing in solidarity with those fighting for a free and just society.
#JusticeForBesigye #FreeBesigye #StopMilitaryTrials #HumanRights
Julius kipkemoi Rotich
February 19, 2025#freekizzabisigye ✊️✊️ Kizza Besigye 🇺🇬 The Commonwealth United Nations Human Rights 🔴What is a famous quote about injustice? “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” ― Martin Luther King Jr. “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. If an elephant has its foot on the tail of a mouse, and you say that you are neutral, the mouse will not appreciate your neutrality.