Gov’t Denies Knowledge of Dr. Kizza Besigye’s Alleged Disappearance

Dr. Kiiza Besigye
File photo

Story by Uziah Tusaasire

The Ugandan government has dismissed allegations of involvement in the disappearance of opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, who reportedly went missing while in Kenya. Chris Baryomunsi, the ICT and National Guidance Minister, stated that the government is unaware of Besigye’s whereabouts or any claims suggesting his detention.

The allegations surfaced after Winnie Byanyima, Besigye’s wife, publicly demanded his immediate release. Byanyima claimed that Besigye was kidnapped last Saturday in Nairobi, where he had attended Hon. Martha Karua’s book launch, and was later transferred to a military jail in Kampala.

Byanyima voiced her concerns on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“I request the Ugandan government to release my husband, Dr. Kizza Besigye, from where he is being held immediately. He was kidnapped last Saturday while in Nairobi for Hon. Martha Karua’s book launch. I am now reliably informed he is in a military jail in Kampala. We, his family and lawyers, demand to see him. He is not a soldier. Why is he being held in a military jail?”

The family, along with Besigye’s legal team, has called for transparency and immediate access to him. Civil society and political figures have expressed growing concerns, urging authorities in both Uganda and Kenya to clarify the situation.

The incident has sparked calls for accountability, with many questioning the legal and ethical implications of holding a civilian in a military facility, if the allegations are confirmed.

Written by Editor