The Ugandan government announced on Sunday that it will stop a military trial against opposition leader Kizza Besigye and urged him to end his hunger strike in jail. However, Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, quickly called the move “suspicious,” raising doubts about the government’s intentions.
Besigye, a former ally of President Yoweri Museveni turned political rival, started a hunger strike on February 10 to protest his detention. The government had accused him of treason, claiming he threatened national security, and planned to try him in a military court. This decision came despite a Supreme Court ruling that trying civilians in military courts is unconstitutional, sparking widespread criticism.
Cabinet spokesperson and Information Minister Chris Baryomunsi confirmed the government’s decision to transfer the case to a civilian court. “As a government, we are complying with the ruling of the Supreme Court,” Baryomunsi said. He also revealed that he visited Besigye in prison on Sunday, accompanied by the opposition leader’s personal doctors, and urged him to resume eating while awaiting the transfer.
The announcement follows growing concerns over Besigye’s health. During a court hearing on Friday for a separate case, Besigye appeared weak and frail, angering his supporters and drawing attention to his treatment in detention.
The Ugandan military, which has not yet commented on the decision, had earlier rejected the Supreme Court’s ruling and insisted on proceeding with the military trial. This stance had heightened tensions between the government and opposition supporters, who see the case as a test of Uganda’s commitment to justice and the rule of law.
Winnie Byanyima, who serves as the executive director of UNAIDS, expressed deep concern about her husband’s condition. “I am very worried about his health,” she told reporters on Sunday. She also criticized the government’s announcement, calling it “suspicious” and questioning its sincerity.
The case has drawn international attention, with human rights groups and foreign governments closely watching developments. Analysts say the handling of Besigye’s trial could have significant implications for Uganda’s political future, especially as calls for democratic reforms grow louder.
As the situation unfolds, many are waiting to see if the government will keep its promise to transfer the case to a civilian court and whether Besigye’s health will improve after ending his hunger strike. For now, his case remains a symbol of the ongoing struggle for political freedom and justice in Uganda.