Bobi Wine voices concern over Kizza Besigye’s health in detention

Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has expressed concern over the health of veteran opposition figure Kizza Besigye while in detention, saying his condition appears to be deteriorating amid limited access to medical care.

In a statement shared on his social media platforms on Wednesday, Bobi Wine posted a photograph of Besigye at a hospital and warned that the opposition stalwart’s health was “worsening.”

“It is very sad to hear that Kizza Besigye’s health has continued to deteriorate while in detention, having been denied access to proper medical care,” Bobi Wine said.

He added that the image underscored the seriousness of Besigye’s condition and called for urgent attention. “We stand fully in solidarity with him and pray for his recovery,” he said.

Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and long-time critic of the Museveni government, has previously raised concerns about his health while in custody.

Supporters and human rights organisations have called for his release or access to comprehensive medical care.

On Tuesday, the People’s Front for Freedom expressed concern over the health of its leader, 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.

The party 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.

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.

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