Ugandan opposition leaders, led by Bobi Wine, have set a 48-hour ultimatum for President Museveni to release Dr. Kizza Besigye and other political prisoners. Besigye’s deteriorating health was emphasized during a unified press conference that condemned the government’s repression. The coalition warns of further action if their demands are not met.
A coalition of Uganda’s leading opposition figures, spearheaded by National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, widely recognized as Bobi Wine, has set a 48-hour ultimatum for President Yoweri Museveni. They demand the immediate release of Dr. Kizza Besigye and other political detainees. This announcement was made during a unified press briefing at NUP’s headquarters in Kampala, where various opposition representatives condemned the government’s repression of political dissent.
Bobi Wine articulated grave concerns regarding the welfare of Besigye and other political prisoners, emphasizing their unlawful detention despite a Supreme Court ruling. The situation escalated on Monday when demonstrators rallied in Kampala, advocating for Besigye’s release following his detention on security charges alongside his aide, Obeid Lutale, lasting nearly three months.
Dr. Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate against President Museveni, has been in custody since his controversial abduction from Kenya in November, subsequently facing military trial in Uganda. Legal issues surrounding civilian trials in military courts heightened following a Supreme Court decision on January 31, raising questions about the legality of their ongoing confinement.
Bobi Wine has also drawn attention to serious health concerns for Besigye, claiming his condition is rapidly worsening. After a visit to the prison, Bobi Wine reported that Besigye had collapsed, stating, “This man is actually dying. He cannot leave his bed.”
The press conference featured prominent opposition figures, including former army commander Maj Gen (Rtd) Mugisha Muntu of ANT and UPC leader Jimmy Akena, who stressed the immediate need for action. They warned that failure to heed their ultimatum would lead to decisive actions against the regime. Bobi Wine declared, “Together, we are issuing a 48-hour ultimatum to the regime to release Dr Besigye and all prisoners of political conscience, or else we shall announce a series of national actions for people to rise and end this impunity.”
The Ugandan opposition has united to demand the immediate release of Dr. Kizza Besigye and others unjustly detained. Following recent Supreme Court rulings questioning their legal status, the leaders have set an ultimatum, highlighting significant health concerns for Besigye. Collective calls for action emphasize the need for accountability within the government, presenting a unified front against political repression.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
