The Ugandan government has indicated it will drop military charges against opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who is on hunger strike. Minister Chris Baryomunsi noted plans to transfer his case to civilian court, prompted by Besigye’s deteriorating health and public protests. However, his wife remains skeptical, questioning the government’s motives amidst ongoing concerns about political repression in Uganda.
On Sunday, the Ugandan government announced it would discontinue military proceedings against opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who is currently on hunger strike while in detention. This statement was made by cabinet spokesman and information minister Chris Baryomunsi, who urged Besigye to end his protest. Besigye, a former ally of President Yoweri Museveni, began his hunger strike on February 10 to protest his arrest on treason charges, which have been criticized as unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.
The government has indicated that efforts are underway to transition Besigye’s case from a military court to the civilian justice system. Minister Baryomunsi mentioned visiting Besigye in prison alongside his personal doctors, appealing to him to resume eating during the transfer process. Previously, the military had defied the Supreme Court ruling and insisted on pursuing the military trial, generating confusion and concern among supporters.
Besigye’s deteriorating health was evident during a court appearance for a separate case, where he appeared frail, alarming his supporters and raising questions about his treatment. Minister Baryomunsi did not address whether the government’s recent decision was influenced by the public outcry or fears regarding Besigye’s health. His wife, Winnie Byanyima, has expressed significant concern, labeling the government’s intentions as dubious and asserting that they will be held accountable for any harm to her husband.
The political climate in Uganda is tense, especially ahead of the 2026 presidential elections. Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have condemned the treatment of opposition figures, describing Besigye’s situation as a serious breach of justice. There is growing international scrutiny regarding the Ugandan government’s attempts to suppress political dissent and its impact on democratic processes.
The Ugandan government’s offer to drop military charges against Kizza Besigye raises concerns about the treatment of opposition figures ahead of upcoming elections. Despite the government’s pledge to comply with the Supreme Court ruling, Besigye’s wife has expressed distrust regarding their intentions. The situation highlights ongoing tensions and potential human rights abuses in Uganda’s political landscape.
Original Source: www.newstopicnews.com
