Politics 7 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Besigye's Transfer from Hospital to Prison Sparks Outrage
Opposition leader Kizza Besigye has been controversially returned to Luzira Prison from Mulago National Referral Hospital, despite ongoing concerns about his fragile health following a collapse in court. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/tension-as-ailing-besigye-returned-to-luzira-prison-after-health-minister-s-visit-5550642
Veteran opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye has been moved from Mulago National Referral Hospital back to Luzira Prison, a decision that has ignited significant tension and condemnation from his family and political allies.
Dr. Besigye, who collapsed during a court session on July 29, 2026, was reportedly transferred out of the hospital’s High Dependency Unit late Friday evening. His family has expressed deep distress, stating that he remains unable to walk or talk and requires specialized care that Luzira Prison is ill-equipped to provide.
His wife, Ms. Winnie Byanyima, described the move as “cruel” and questioned the rationale, particularly after prison officials had previously acknowledged the facility’s limitations in supporting his rehabilitation needs. She noted a dramatic shift in events following a visit by the Minister for Health, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, earlier that day.
Dr. Baryomunsi had posted on social media that Dr. Besigye was “steadily recuperating.” This account sharply contrasts with statements from Dr. Besigye’s family and his political platform, the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF). The PFF characterized the transfer as a “forcible evacuation” and accused the government of concealing his critical health status.
The PFF has demanded Dr. Besigye’s immediate release and transfer abroad for advanced medical treatment, holding the Ugandan government, the Prisons Service, and the military accountable for his safety.
Dr. Besigye has been in custody since November 2024, facing charges of treason and misprision of treason. His ongoing detention and recent medical emergency have drawn international attention to Uganda’s human rights record and the treatment of political prisoners.
As of Friday evening, neither the Uganda Prisons Service nor the police had issued an official statement regarding the transfer or the alleged disregard for medical advice.