Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye, his aide Obeid Lutale, and one of their lawyers will remain in detention until later this month as the High Court in Kampala deliberates on their case.
Justice Douglas Karekona Singiza announced on Wednesday that a ruling would be delivered by February 25, 2025. Besigye, a former presidential candidate, has been in custody since November 2024.
The judge’s decision comes amid delays by the Ugandan government in implementing a Supreme Court ruling issued on January 31, which declared it unconstitutional for the General Court Martial to try civilians and directed that their cases be transferred to civilian courts.
Justice Singiza acknowledged that Besigye had appeared in court but emphasized that the key issue was the legality of his continued detention.
The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has also voiced concern over the delays, issuing a protest letter on Monday demanding swift legal proceedings.
Following the court’s decision, Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, and National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine, condemned the ruling, calling it politically motivated.
“The regime is persecuting Kizza Besigye and other political prisoners under the guise of prosecution. Ugandans, both at home and abroad, must continue to exert pressure. We will not stop. We gave the regime 48 hours to release Dr Besigye because we want him alive. They are trying to kill him,” Bobi Wine stated.
Byanyima also expressed frustration, saying, “I expected to take him home today. I’m devastated but not surprised. Besigye was kidnapped and is now a captive, just like the rest of us under Museveni’s rule. Shame on this judge for sending my husband back to jail while his health is deteriorating.”
Besigye’s condition has reportedly worsened due to a prolonged hunger strike. On Sunday, he was briefly taken to a private clinic in Bugolobi for medical tests before being returned to prison.
His supporters continue to raise concerns about his well-being, demanding urgent medical attention and his immediate release.
