Ugandan court denies bail to Besigye
Prominent Ugandan opposition figure Kizza Besigye was denied bail by a High Court judge, despite meeting all release conditions. Besigye and co-accused Obed Lutale have spent over 140 days in detention on treason charges, appearing in court handcuffed together.
Justice Rosette Kania rejected their bail application, citing concerns they might interfere with ongoing investigations into charges of treason and misprision of treason. Besigye, who previously served as President Yoweri Museveni's personal physician, has become a significant democratic resistance figure after challenging Museveni's nearly four-decade rule in multiple presidential elections.
The circumstances surrounding Besigye's detention have drawn international criticism. He was allegedly abducted by Ugandan intelligence agents in Nairobi, Kenya in late 2024 before being extradited and brought before a military tribunal in Kampala. The charges against him include treachery and illegal possession of firearms, which carry severe penalties under Ugandan law.
Several international organizations have condemned his continued detention. The Commonwealth has urged Uganda to release Besigye, arguing his detention undermines democratic principles. Amnesty International has called for his immediate release, expressing concerns about his deteriorating health due to a hunger strike.
Winnie Byanyima, Besigye's wife and executive director of UNAIDS, has voiced concerns about her husband's wellbeing and the fairness of his trial. She highlighted threats made against him, including from President Museveni's son, Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
The case has intensified scrutiny of Uganda's political climate ahead of the 2026 general elections, with observers noting a pattern of repression against opposition figures. These developments raise significant questions about the fairness and transparency of the upcoming electoral process in Uganda, as Museveni appears to be tightening his grip on power while silencing potential challengers.
