Dr Kizza Besigye. Photo: Courtesy
Winnie Byanyima, wife of Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye, has spoken out against her husband’s detention, describing it as a blatant violation of legal norms and political persecution.
She shared her statement on X, detailing the circumstances surrounding Besigye’s imprisonment.
According to Byanyima, Besigye was abducted from Kenya and taken to a military prison in Uganda.
He was later presented before a military court and sentenced by the army commander, whom she identified as President Yoweri Museveni’s son.
Besigye has been denied bail on three occasions and is reportedly held in solitary confinement.
Byanyima called the treatment “not justice” and accused Ugandan authorities of using the legal system to silence dissent.
She added that Ugandans, from Kigezi to West Nile, view the case as politically motivated rather than a matter of law.
Besigye’s detention has drawn concern from human rights groups, particularly over the use of military courts to try civilians, a practice that raises questions about fairness and adherence to due process under Ugandan law.
Attempts to obtain official comment from Ugandan authorities have so far been unsuccessful.
Besigye’s supporters continue to call for transparency and respect for legal standards, highlighting the repeated denial of bail and conditions of solitary confinement.
Byanyima concluded her statement with a call to end what she described as a “cynical, vicious political game,” urging authorities to release her husband.
The case is being closely followed across the region.