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The Government of Uganda has spoken firmly and in detail on the continued detention of veteran opposition leader Dr. Col. Kizza Besigye, making it clear that his release will not happen until his treason trial is fully concluded.
According to government officials, the matter is strictly legal and must follow the laid-down judicial process, regardless of public pressure, political debate, or emotional appeals from supporters.
Authorities insist that allowing Dr. Besigye to regain his freedom before his day in court would seriously damage the credibility of the justice system. They argue that such a move would create doubt in the minds of Ugandans and the international community, raising questions about whether the charges were genuine or politically motivated from the start.
This firm position was officially communicated during a press briefing held in Rukungiri District, the home area of Dr. Besigye. The briefing was led by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, who was representing President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and speaking on behalf of the government.
The meeting came amid rising anger and frustration among residents of Rukungiri, many of whom believe their long-time political figure is being unfairly targeted. Locals have repeatedly accused the state of denying Dr. Besigye bail and using the courts as a tool to weaken opposition voices.
Held at the Rukungiri District Council Hall, the meeting attracted a wide range of senior government officials and security leaders. The gathering was intended to address public concerns, clarify government intentions, and explain why the state believes the continued detention of Dr. Besigye is justified under the law.
Among those present were the Minister for Security, Rt. Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jim Muhwezi, and the Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi. They were joined by National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearers, party delegates, heads of various security agencies, and members of the press.
While addressing journalists, Tayebwa said the long stay of Dr. Besigye and his co-accused, Obeid Lutale, in detention should not be blamed on the government. He argued that the state has been ready to proceed with the trial, but delays have been caused mainly by the accused themselves.
He explained that the two suspects have been in custody for over a year facing serious treason charges. According to Tayebwa, the prosecution has completed investigations and assembled all necessary evidence, meaning the court process could move faster if there were no interruptions.
“The government is ready with its evidence,” Tayebwa told reporters, emphasizing that the state has nothing to hide. He added that a speedy trial would allow the truth to be presented openly, helping Ugandans understand the basis of the charges and the strength of the prosecution’s case.
Tayebwa questioned why the accused were allegedly reluctant to consistently appear in court. He said President Museveni has expressed concern over the repeated delays, noting that prolonged cases only fuel suspicion, political tension, and public mistrust.
He further revealed that Dr. Besigye had on several occasions declined to attend court sessions, which, according to the government, has contributed to the slow progress of the trial. Such actions, he said, make it difficult for the judiciary to deliver timely justice.
The Deputy Speaker argued that releasing Dr. Besigye before trial would send a dangerous signal to the public. In his view, it would suggest that the charges were baseless and that the arrest itself was a mistake, something the government strongly rejects.
“Releasing the accused before trial would suggest there was no reason for the arrest,” Tayebwa said. “Let the court process go on so that the truth can be known by all Ugandans.”
He also urged the defence team to stop what he described as unnecessary delays and instead allow the trial to proceed without interruptions. According to him, only a completed court process can bring closure to the matter.
Tayebwa dismissed claims that the case is driven by personal hatred or revenge between President Museveni and Dr. Besigye, who were once close allies. He insisted that the law does not operate on emotions or political history.
“There is no personal grudge,” Tayebwa said, stressing that the arrest was based on alleged crimes, not political rivalry. He emphasized that guilt or innocence can only be decided by a competent court of law.
Minister for ICT and National Guidance Dr. Chris Baryomunsi supported Tayebwa’s remarks, reminding the public that the Judiciary is an independent arm of government. He said courts operate without interference from the Executive, including the President.
Baryomunsi explained that President Museveni has no constitutional authority to order the release of an accused person whose case is still active in court. He urged critics to understand the limits of presidential power under the law.
“Those calling on the President to release Dr. Besigye should know that such powers belong to the courts,” Baryomunsi said. “The President cannot interfere in ongoing judicial proceedings.”
Meanwhile, Security Minister Jim Muhwezi revealed that he had previously appealed to President Museveni to consider releasing Dr. Besigye. However, he admitted that such a request cannot be acted upon while the case remains before court.
Muhwezi blamed the continued detention on delays linked to the defence team, saying the situation could change once the trial is concluded. He added that if the court process ends, he would once again appeal to the President.
Dr. Kizza Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and one of Uganda’s most outspoken opposition figures, remains in custody alongside Obeid Lutale. As the treason case continues, it has drawn intense national attention, sparked political debate, and further deepened divisions within the country.
