Winnie Byanyima has expressed readiness to engage the government in dialogue to secure the release of her husband, veteran opposition leader Kizza Besigye, amid growing concerns about his health while in detention.
Speaking to journalists at her residence in Kasangati, Byanyima described Besigye as being in a visibly weakened state. She said he appears frail, at times struggles to speak coherently, and is unable to walk properly without assistance. According to her, his condition has deteriorated over the past months, raising fears about his overall well-being.
Byanyima further alleged that Besigye is being held in solitary confinement and is restricted from interacting freely with other inmates. She argued that such conditions, combined with the stress of prolonged detention, could be worsening his health situation. She called for what she termed a humane and compassionate approach to his case.
Besigye and his political ally, Hajj Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya, have been on remand since November 2024 following their arrest in Nairobi. The two were later charged with treason upon return to Uganda, a serious offense that carries heavy legal consequences. Their detention has continued as investigations and court proceedings unfold.
Despite the gravity of the charges, Byanyima said she is prepared to open channels of dialogue with state authorities in an effort to resolve the matter peacefully. She emphasized that her appeal is not only legal but humanitarian, focusing on her husband’s health and dignity. In addition to seeking engagement with government officials, she revealed that she has organized special prayer sessions involving religious leaders, calling on faith communities to stand in solidarity and pray for Besigye’s recovery and freedom.
Government authorities, however, maintain that Besigye is receiving proper medical attention while in custody and insist that the judicial process must take its course. Officials have reiterated that the case is before the courts and that any decision regarding his release must follow established legal procedures.
The situation continues to draw national attention, with supporters demanding his release on humanitarian grounds, while others argue that the rule of law must prevail. As debate intensifies, Byanyima’s call for dialogue introduces a potential new dimension to the case — one centered on engagement and reconciliation rather than confrontation.
