Uganda’s People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) expressed concerns over the health of its leader, Dr Kizza Besigye, lamenting that his condition has deteriorated while in custody.
In a statement, the group said it had “credible reports” that Dr. Besigye was transported under strict protection from Luzira Prison to a medical clinic at Bugolobi Village Mall overnight.
The party did not elaborate on his condition or the course of treatment he underwent.
According to PFF, supporters are now more worried about his welfare while in custody as a result of the event.
“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 stated that it holds “the regime and the prison authorities fully accountable for his well-being.” It also demanded quick response so that people who were near to him could see how he was doing.
PFF called for “immediate and unrestricted access” to Dr. Besigye for his family and personal physicians.
It noted, “We reiterate that Dr Besigye is being held in total disregard of the law. He must be freed to receive the care he deserves.”
Additionally, the statement urged people to be vigilant and together throughout this time.
“We ask all compatriots and lovers of freedom to keep Dr. Besigye in your prayers and to remain vigilant,” it said.
PFF stated that it would “provide updates as more details emerge from our teams on the ground” and that it would keep sharing information as it became available.
Since his incarceration a year and a half ago, Besigye’s health has been jeopardised.
The incarceration of the opposition leader in Uganda since November 2024 has continued to raise serious concerns. The most recent of Besigye’s five arrests occurred on November 16, 2024, in Nairobi, where he was scheduled to attend Karua’s book launch.
Besigye and Hajj Lutale were charged with possessing an illicit firearm and appeared before a military court in Kampala four days later on November 20.
They were placed on remand at Luzira Maximum Security Prison after entering a not guilty plea. The military court decided in January 2025 that Besigye might face treason charges.
Besigye showed up at Buganda Road Chief Magistrate Court on February 14. His bony shoulders dropped, and he appeared weak and ill. His skin stretched thin over his prominent cheekbones, and his sunken cheeks and hollow eyes told of many days without proper meals.
Senior Counsel Martha Karua expressed concern over Besigye’s health, stating that the man’s long incarceration had harmed his health and that he was having episodes of vertigo.
“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 voiced concerns over his imprisonment and the political unrest in Uganda.