President Museveni Addresses Dr. Kizza Besigye’s Incarceration and Health Concerns
In a press release dated February 18, 2025, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni addressed the ongoing legal and health situation surrounding Dr. Kizza Besigye, who is currently remanded over alleged serious offenses. The statement comes amid growing public concern over Dr. Besigye’s incarceration and his reported hunger strike, which has raised questions about his health and the fairness of the legal process.
President Museveni emphasized the importance of a quick trial to ensure accountability and transparency. He stated, “If you want a stable country, the more correct question should be: ‘Why was Dr. Besigye arrested?’ The answer to that is a quick trial so that facts come out.” The President argued that delaying the trial process could promote insecurity, which he described as dangerous for the nation.
The President also addressed concerns about Dr. Besigye’s health, noting that the government has provided access to medical care. He revealed that Dr. Besigye has been treated at a government hospital within the prison and has been visited by his personal doctors, who have taken him to private clinics when necessary. However, Museveni attributed Dr. Besigye’s visible weakness to his hunger strike, which he described as “unprincipled blackmail” aimed at generating sympathy for bail.
President Museveni reiterated that the government is committed to accountability, particularly for those accused of serious crimes. He referenced Uganda’s history of reconciliation and forgiveness but stressed that accountability remains a cornerstone of the nation’s doctrine. “We are not for vengeance, but the danger of the killers must be removed,” he stated, drawing parallels to past sacrifices made by freedom fighters who defeated oppressive regimes like Idi Amin’s.
The President also clarified that the delay in the trial process was due to the transfer of the case from military to civilian courts, following judicial orders to address gaps in the military court system. He assured the public that the government and legislators are working to resolve these issues.
The statement concluded with a call for Dr. Besigye to demand a quick trial to prove his innocence rather than seeking bail or forgiveness. “If you are innocent, why do you not demand a quick trial so that you can prove your innocence?” Museveni questioned.
This press release has sparked mixed reactions, with some Ugandans calling for transparency and fairness in the legal process, while others support the President’s stance on accountability. As the case unfolds, the nation watches closely, hoping for a resolution that upholds justice and stability.