People’s Front for Freedom says Besigye’s health is ‘critical’

The People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) has expressed concern over the health of its leader, Dr Kizza Besigye, saying his condition has become “critical and deteriorating” while in custody.

In a statement, the group said it had received “credible reports” that Dr Besigye was rushed overnight from Luzira Prison to a medical facility at Bugolobi Village Mall under heavy security.

The party did not provide further details on his condition or the treatment he received.

PFF said the development has heightened concern among supporters and raised questions about his welfare while in detention.

“It is a tragedy that a man who has dedicated his life to the health and freedom of others is being denied his own right to medical dignity,” the statement said.

The party said it holds “the regime and the prison authorities fully accountable for his well-being.” It also called for immediate action to allow those close to him to check on his condition.

PFF demanded that Dr Besigye’s personal doctors and family be granted “immediate and unrestricted access” to him. The group further maintained that he is being held unlawfully, saying, “We reiterate that Dr Besigye is being held in total disregard of the law. He must be freed to receive the care he deserves.”

The statement also appealed to the public for solidarity and vigilance during this period. “We ask all compatriots and lovers of freedom to keep Dr. Besigye in your prayers and to remain vigilant,” it said.

PFF said it would continue to share information as it becomes available, noting that it would “provide updates as more details emerge from our teams on the ground.”

This is not the first time that Besigye’s health has been compromised since his detention a year and two months ago.

The Ugandan opposition leader’s detention since November 2024 has continued to spark massive concern. Besigye has been arrested at least five times, with the most recent being on November 16, 2024, in Nairobi, where he was to attend Karua’s book launch.

Four days later, on November 20, Besigye and Hajj Lutale appeared before a military court in Kampala, under the charges of possession of an illegal firearm.

They pleaded not guilty and were remanded at Luzira Maximum Security Prison. In January 2025, the military court ruled that Besigye could be tried for treachery.

On February 14, Besigye appeared at Buganda Road Chief Magistrate Court, looking frail and sickly, as his bony shoulders slumped. His sunken cheeks and hollow eyes spoke of long days without proper meals, with his skin stretched thin over his prominent cheekbones.

Senior Counsel Martha Karua raised concerns over Besigye’s health, saying the man was experiencing bouts of dizziness, and his health had been compromised by the lengthy incarceration.

“It is concerning that the health of Dr Besigye has been greatly compromised by his lengthy and unnecessary incarceration,” Karua said.

Human rights organisations have continued raising concerns over his incarceration and the political tension in Uganda.