Detained veteran opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye has been rushed from Luzira Prison to a private clinic in one of the suburbs of Kampala, according to his lawyer, Erias Lukwago.
Through his social media platforms, Lukwago said that the former presidential candidate had been taken to a clinic located in Bugolobi, Kampala, in an ambulance.
“More prayers for Dr. Besigye, who is currently at a private medical facility in Bugolobi, where he was rushed in an ambulance after his health condition deteriorated,” Lukwago said.
This came hours after ICT and National Guidance Minister Dr. Chris Baryomunsi said he had visited him at Luzira Prison.
“I have just visited Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye at Luzira Prison in the presence of his personal doctors. I have given him counsel and asked him to resume taking food as the government fast-tracks the transfer of his case from the court martial to a civil court,” said Baryomunsi.
Besigye’s wife responded to Baryomunsi, saying, “Our family finds your visit highly suspicious, and we will hold you and your government fully accountable for any harm that comes to him. Besigye demands his freedom, not your deceitful ‘counsel,’ which he rightfully treats with contempt.”
Besigye was arrested on November 16, 2024, and charged with treason before a military court. The Supreme Court banned the trial of civilians in military courts last month. However, he remains detained at Luzira Prison.
Last week, he appeared before Buganda Road Court on charges of inciting violence. He was frail, which raised calls for his immediate release so that he could seek specialized treatment.
