KAMPALA, Uganda — The People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) has raised fresh alarm over the deteriorating health of veteran Ugandan opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, warning that his condition has reached a critical stage following a late-night transfer from Luzira Prison to a medical facility.
In a statement released on Sunday, the opposition party said Dr. Besigye was moved under heavy security to a hospital located at Bugolobi Village Mall, describing the circumstances surrounding the transfer as deeply concerning and demanding immediate and unrestricted medical access to him.
“The situation has become dire. We have received credible reports that Dr. Besigye was rushed to a medical facility under heavy security, a man who has dedicated his life to the health and freedom of others now denied his own right to medical care and dignity,” the PFF statement reads.
The party accused prison authorities and the government of failing in their duty of care, holding them fully responsible for Dr. Besigye’s wellbeing while in custody. According to the statement, Besigye has been denied adequate medical treatment and basic legal rights during his detention.
“It is a tragedy that Dr. Besigye, a man who has sacrificed his life for the freedom of Ugandans, is being subjected to such conditions,” the statement continued. “We demand that his personal doctors and family be granted unrestricted access to him. Dr. Besigye must be freed to receive the care he deserves.”
Dr. Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and long-time critic of President Yoweri Museveni, has been in detention facing a series of charges, including treason, in connection with what prosecutors allege was a plot to overthrow the government. His co-accused, Hajji Obeid Lutale, remains in custody under the same case.
Both men have consistently denied the accusations, with their legal teams arguing that the charges are politically motivated and aimed at silencing dissent.
Their detention has drawn sustained criticism from human rights organisations, legal scholars and international observers, who have questioned the use of national security laws against opposition figures.
Since their arrest, Besigye and Lutale have filed multiple bail applications, all of which have been rejected.
The most recent ruling, delivered on December 29, 2025, upheld earlier decisions, citing the gravity of the charges and the alleged cross-border nature of the case, which prosecutors argue presents a flight risk.
The legal proceedings have also been overshadowed by allegations of judicial bias. In late 2025, the two accused petitioned the Constitutional Court seeking the recusal of Justice Emmanuel Baguma, arguing that he was incapable of presiding impartially over the case. That petition remains a key point of contention in the broader legal battle.
Concerns over Dr. Besigye’s health have been mounting for months. Reports from court appearances late last year described him as visibly frail, at times requiring a wheelchair, fuelling public calls for his release on humanitarian and medical grounds.
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Rights advocates have repeatedly warned that prolonged detention without adequate medical care could pose serious risks to his life.
The PFF has now renewed its appeal, urging authorities to act swiftly to safeguard Besigye’s health and uphold constitutional protections.
The party has also called on the public to remain engaged and vigilant as the case unfolds.
“We ask all compatriots and lovers of freedom to keep Dr. Besigye in your prayers and to remain vigilant.We will continue to provide updates as more details emerge from our teams on the ground,” said PFF.
