The Ugandan government may drop military charges against opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who has been on a hunger strike since February 10. Officials announced plans to transfer his case from military to civil court, adhering to a Supreme Court ruling. Concerns regarding Besigye’s health and the treatment of political opposition in Uganda have been voiced by various organizations ahead of the 2026 elections.

On Sunday, the Ugandan government signaled a potential shift in its approach to the military trial of opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who has been on a hunger strike since February 10 in protest of his detention. Government officials indicated they would cease military proceedings, urging Besigye to end his strike as they sought to transfer his case from a military court to a civil court to comply with a Supreme Court ruling.

Cabinet spokesman Chris Baryomunsi announced the government’s readiness to align with the Supreme Court’s decision, which deemed military trials unconstitutional for civilians. He mentioned visiting Besigye in prison with his doctors, urging him to resume eating while the case transition is expedited. However, the military has remained silent on this development after previously stating their intentions to uphold martial law in Besigye’s case.

Besigye appeared frail during a recent court hearing, prompting anger from supporters who are concerned about his health condition. His wife, Winnie Byanyima, expressed significant worry over his deteriorating state. Various international bodies, including the UN and Amnesty International, have criticized the Ugandan government for its treatment of political opposition, especially as the country gears up for the presidential elections in 2026.

The Ugandan government has reconsidered its stance on Kizza Besigye’s military trial, potentially due to public outcry over his health during a hunger strike. They are planning to move his case to civil court, in compliance with a Supreme Court ruling that military trials for civilians are unconstitutional. Concerns from both domestic and international observers continue regarding the suppression of political opposition ahead of the upcoming elections.

Original Source: 24newshd.tv