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Ugandans have reacted with concern after opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye was taken back to hospital following reports that his health condition had worsened.
Besigye was reportedly transferred from Luzira Prison to the Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC) hospital after his health deteriorated, according to his wife Winnie Byanyima.
The development has renewed public debate over the condition of the veteran opposition politician, with some Ugandans questioning whether more should be done to address his medical needs.
“Should he first die before they realise that he was indeed very sick?” some concerned Ugandans asked while reacting to the news.
Byanyima said her husband remained weak and was struggling with basic activities such as walking, speaking, writing and holding items steadily.
She renewed her call for authorities to allow Besigye to travel to Geneva, Switzerland, where she wants him to receive further medical treatment while surrounded by his family.
“I am asking for one thing – let me bring him home to Geneva for proper medical care, surrounded by his family,” Byanyima said.
The UNAIDS executive director has repeatedly appealed to President Yoweri Museveni’s government to allow Besigye access to treatment outside the country.
Besigye’s health concerns have been ongoing since he reportedly collapsed during his treason trial at the High Court in Kampala on July 29.
He was later admitted to Mulago National Referral Hospital, where his family said he spent time receiving intensive medical care after his condition became critical.
After his condition improved, Besigye was returned to Luzira Prison, where he continued receiving treatment at the prison health facility.
His family, however, raised concerns that he had not fully recovered and needed specialised care outside the prison environment.
A medical assessment reportedly found that Besigye remained weak but alert, with doctors using alternative methods to communicate with him due to difficulties with speech.
The matter has also affected his ongoing court proceedings, with concerns raised about his ability to participate in his trial while dealing with health challenges.
High Court officials have previously requested medical updates regarding his condition after he failed to appear in court due to illness.
His supporters and opposition figures have continued calling for what they describe as urgent and appropriate medical attention.
Activist Doreen Nyanjura also expressed concern, saying attempts to visit Besigye had failed because authorities indicated that he was too unwell to receive visitors.
Besigye faces treason charges alongside Hajji Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola, with prosecutors accusing them of plotting to overthrow the government.
His legal team and supporters have continued to highlight his health condition while demanding that his rights and access to medical care are protected.
The situation has attracted reactions from different sections of society, with many Ugandans debating the balance between legal processes and humanitarian concerns.
As Besigye remains under medical care, attention is now focused on his recovery, the next steps in his trial and whether his family’s request for treatment abroad will be considered.
The veteran opposition leader’s health has once again placed his case at the centre of national discussion, with supporters calling for urgent action.
