The appeal was made by Uganda's Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, who visited Besigye at Luzira Prison, where he has been detained since November 16, 2024.
"I have just visited Col. Dr. Kizza 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," Baryomunsi said through his X handle.
Besigye, a long-time critic of President Yoweri Museveni, has been on a hunger strike since February 10 in protest of his continued detention, despite a Supreme Court ruling that civilians cannot be tried in military courts.
Baryomunsi reiterated the government's commitment to adhering to the Supreme Court's decision. "As a government, we are complying with the ruling of the Supreme Court."
Despite the minister's statement, the army has yet to comment on the transfer of Besigye's case. Previously, military officials had dismissed the Supreme Court ruling, insisting that the trial would proceed in the military court.
Besigye's wife, UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima, has expressed skepticism about the government's pledge. She described the offer as "suspicious" and questioned its sincerity.
Besigye appeared frail during a recent court hearing, prompting his supporters to demand his immediate release. While Uganda Prisons officials have denied reports of his hunger strike, his allies insist that his health is deteriorating.
Yesterday, he was rushed under tight security to a medical facility at Bugolobi Village Mall for urgent treatment.
Political analyst and journalist Yusuf Sserunkuma has warned of potential consequences if Besigye's detention continues. "Whoever is calling the shots to continue incarcerating Dr. Kizza Besigye is risking all of us," he wrote.
As discussions on his trial transfer continue, it remains unclear whether Besigye will end his hunger strike or if the military will comply with the Supreme Court ruling.
IGIHE
