Ugandans and Kenyans have united in demanding the release of Uganda’s opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who has been in police custody since November 2024. Besigye, 68, was allegedly abducted in Nairobi and later charged in a Ugandan military court with possessing pistols and attempting to purchase weapons abroad—charges he has denied.
Currently on a hunger strike, Besigye was rushed to a clinic in critical condition on Sunday. His detention has sparked widespread online protests, with “Free Besigye” trending on social media. Supporters argue that his continued imprisonment defies a Supreme Court ruling against civilian trials in military courts.
The growing movement has urged regional and international bodies, including the African Union and United Nations, to condemn Uganda’s actions. Meanwhile, Besigye’s family has raised concerns after authorities, who had previously denied him access to his doctor, suddenly requested a medical visit—signaling fears of a deteriorating condition.
