Civil Society, Youth Groups Demand Immediate Release of Dr. Kiiza Besigye from Luzira Prison

Key stakeholders from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), youth groups, and political parties have called on the Ugandan government to release retired Colonel Dr. Kiiza Besigye, a four-time presidential aspirant, from Luzira Prison. Dr. Besigye is currently being held on charges originating from the Makindye General Court Martial.

During a press briefing held on Tuesday at the Center for Constitutional Governance (CCG) offices in Ntinda, stakeholders emphasized that Dr. Besigye’s continued detention violates the Ugandan Constitution and undermines the rule of law. They also raised concerns about his deteriorating health, describing it as a serious violation of his fundamental rights.

Sarah Bireete, a prominent civil society advocate, stated, “His deteriorating health is alarming and a clear violation of fundamental rights. We need to demilitarize justice in Uganda for all citizens. It’s important to note that the worst form of injustice is pretended justice, as we are witnessing in Uganda.”

Bireete further highlighted that the Supreme Court had previously declared all provisions of the law used to try Dr. Besigye null and void, rendering the charges against him invalid. “The Supreme Court decrees were very clear. They declared all provisions of the law for trying Dr. Besigye a nullity, meaning there are no cases to transfer. The second decree was to cease false charges immediately. This means that whatever the Attorney General and DPP are doing is pretended justice. If the government intends to charge Dr. Besigye and others, it should issue fresh charges,” she explained.

The stakeholders urged the Ugandan government to respect and uphold the Supreme Court’s ruling, which declared the trial of civilians in military courts unconstitutional. They also called for the full implementation of the court’s decision in all cases.

Moses Byamugisha, Coordinator of the Young Ugandan Network, remarked, “The government must adhere to the court’s decision regarding the unconstitutionality of trying civilians in military courts. Dr. Besigye must be immediately granted access to the specialized medical treatment he urgently requires. The government must guarantee the fundamental rights and freedoms of all citizens, including the right to a fair trial and freedom from arbitrary detention.”

Amanyiire Sheila, representing the National Unity Platform (NUP) Women’s League, announced plans for a peaceful march to Parliament next week. The march aims to petition the Speaker of Parliament regarding Dr. Besigye’s prolonged detention.

The collective call from CSOs, youth groups, and political parties underscores the growing demand for justice, respect for human rights, and adherence to the rule of law in Uganda.