Winnie Byanyima describes Minister Baryomunsi’s visit to Besigye in Luzira as “an insult”

Dr. Kizza Besigye, the Ugandan opposition leader and activist, remains in Luzira prison despite deteriorating health conditions.

After civilian trials before the military court were halted by the Supreme Court in a landmark ruling on January 31, Besigye is still imprisoned as a result of the military court decision.

The Supreme court ordered that all cases before the military be transferred to the civilian court.

The former FDC party president and four-time presidential candidate was arrested in Nairobi, Kenya, and brought to Uganda to face charges of illegal firearm possession and treachery.

While in Luzira prison, there have been reports that Besigye went on a hunger strike, which contributed to his current poor health.

His supporters and family members were alarmed by his weak and ill appearance before the Buganda Road Court on Friday.

He faces charges in connection with the Kampala protest against the exorbitant prices of necessities in 2022.

Calls and demands for his release on medical grounds have been made nationwide since Friday. However, the government (State) continues to resist public demands.

On Sunday, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, Minister of ICT and National Guidance, and the official government spokesperson, wrote on X:

“I have just visited Col Dr Kiiza Besigye at Luzira prison in the presence of his personal doctors. I have given him counsel and asked him to resume taking food as the government fast tracks the transfer of his case from the court martial to a civil court.”

Soon after his post, Winnie Byanyima, Besigye’s wife, responded:

“Mr. Baryomunsi, your actions are an insult and an abuse of my husband’s rights. @kizzabesigye1 was abducted and is being held captive by your government. As an NRM minister, you are not a concerned visitor—you are his captor.

“Our family finds your visit highly suspicious, and we will hold you and your government fully accountable for any harm that comes to him.

“@kizzabesigye1 demands his freedom, not your deceitful ‘counsel,’ which he rightfully treats with contempt.

“Shame on you!”