President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called for a swift trial of opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, who remains in detention over serious allegations linked to national security.
In a strongly worded statement, Museveni dismissed concerns raised by some Ugandans over Besigye’s continued incarceration, emphasizing that the legal process must take its course to ensure justice and accountability.
“If you want a stable country, the more correct question should be: ‘Naye Dr. Besigye bamukwatila ki? Why was Dr. Besigye arrested?’ The answer to that is a quick trial so that facts come out. Otherwise, you are promoting insecurity which is very dangerous for the country,” Museveni stated.
The President stressed that Uganda’s governance strategy has always been rooted in accountability, particularly for those responsible for acts of violence against citizens. He referenced past leaders and freedom fighters, asserting that the country’s current stability was achieved through sacrifices made by those who opposed oppressive regimes.
“We are not for vengeance, but the danger of the killers must be removed. Therefore, the correct answer in the matter of Dr. Besigye is a quick trial,” he added.
Museveni attributed the delay in Besigye’s trial to procedural changes, noting that the case was initially handled by the Military Courts before being transferred to Civilian Courts, following judicial directives.
“Who slowed down the trial process? It is the Courts that pointed out some gaps in the Military Courts and they ordered the transfer of the cases to Civilian Courts,” he explained.
He further stated that efforts are underway to ensure the trial proceeds, with the government and legislators working on closing the legal loopholes identified in the military justice system.
Addressing concerns over Besigye’s health, Museveni assured the public that medical care has been provided within prison facilities and that Besigye’s personal doctors have had access to him.
“There is, first of all, a Government hospital in the Prison. Besides, Dr. Besigye’s personal doctors have been visiting him and even taking him to private clinics. If there was need for any additional medical care, the Government would be advised,” he stated.
However, the President accused Besigye of attempting to manipulate public sympathy through a hunger strike rather than seeking to clear his name in court.
“How can you be accused of serious crimes and, then, your response is hunger strike to generate sympathy for getting bail, etc.? Why don’t you demand a quick trial?” he questioned.
Museveni reaffirmed that the military court had been prepared to proceed with the case, but the transition to a civilian trial was the next step. “Let us wait for the civilian court,” he concluded.
Dr. Kizza Besigye, a veteran opposition leader and former presidential candidate, has been a longstanding critic of Museveni’s government. His arrest and continued detention have drawn both local and international attention, with some activists calling for his release.
With Museveni emphasizing a swift judicial process, all eyes are now on Uganda’s legal system to determine the next course of action in Besigye’s case.
