Uganda’s opposition People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) has raised alarm over the deteriorating health of its leader, Dr Kizza Besigye, saying his condition has become critical while in detention at Luzira Maximum Security Prison.
In a statement, the party said it had received credible information that Besigye was rushed overnight under heavy security from Luzira Prison to a medical facility at Bugolobi Village Mall.
The party did not disclose details of his condition or the treatment he received, citing limited access.
PFF said the development has deepened concern among supporters and renewed questions about the opposition leader’s welfare while in custody.
“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 party said.
The group held the government and prison authorities fully responsible for Besigye’s wellbeing and demanded immediate access to him by his family and personal doctors.
“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 added.
PFF also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and show solidarity during what it described as a critical period, promising to share updates as more information becomes available from its teams on the ground.
Besigye’s health has been a recurring concern since his detention more than a year ago.
The veteran opposition leader has been arrested at least five times, with the most recent arrest taking place on November 16, 2024, in Nairobi, where he was scheduled to attend former Kenyan justice minister Martha Karua’s book launch.
Four days later, on November 20, Besigye and co-accused Hajj Lutale were arraigned before a military court in Kampala on charges of possession of an illegal firearm.
They pleaded not guilty and were remanded at Luzira Prison. In January 2025, the military court ruled that Besigye could also face treachery charges.
Concerns about his health intensified on February 14 when Besigye appeared before the Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court visibly frail, with observers noting his sunken cheeks, hollow eyes and general physical weakness.
Senior Counsel Martha Karua told the court that Besigye had been experiencing dizziness and that his health had been severely compromised by prolonged 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 repeatedly raised concerns over Besigye’s detention, warning that his continued incarceration reflects rising political tension and shrinking civic space in Uganda.
