By Dean Lubowa Saava
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has appealed to former presidential candidate Dr. Kizza Besigye to end his hunger strike, emphasizing the need for a fair and swift trial.
Besigye, along with his co-accused Hajj Obedi Kamulegeya, faces serious charges, including possession of firearms and allegedly holding meetings abroad to undermine the Ugandan army’s security.
The two were reportedly abducted in Nairobi last month after attending a book launch hosted by Kenyan opposition politician Martha Karua. Their case, initially handled by the General Court Martial, is now awaiting transfer to civil courts following a landmark Supreme Court ruling.
Museveni addressed public concerns regarding Besigye’s detention, arguing that a quick trial is essential to establish the truth. He rejected claims that Besigye’s detention is politically motivated, highlighting Uganda’s history of reconciliation and forgiveness, while emphasizing accountability as a key principle.
The President also criticized Besigye’s hunger strike as a form of blackmail, arguing that the government has made adequate medical provisions. Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, had earlier confirmed that her husband was on hunger strike, detained illegally by a regime that fears his defiance more than it respects the law.
The debate surrounding Besigye’s trial has sparked concerns about the legitimacy of trying civilians in military courts. The Supreme Court’s ruling has reclassified the court martial as a disciplinary committee of the army, prompting Museveni to defend the practice as essential for maintaining peace and stability in the country.
As the trial awaits transfer to civilian courts, Museveni has urged Besigye to end his hunger strike and allow the legal process to unfold. The outcome of the trial will be closely watched, with many Ugandans eagerly awaiting a resolution to the high-profile case.
