Prominent Ugandan opposition figure Kizza Besigye has appeared before a military court in Kampala, where he denied charges including illegal possession of firearms and negotiating to buy arms abroad.
This appearance follows allegations from his wife, Winnie Byanyima, that he was kidnapped in neighboring Kenya last Saturday and subsequently sent back to Uganda, where he is being held in a military jail.
In a post on X, Byanyima stated that her 68-year-old husband was seized during a book launch event in Nairobi. She demanded the Ugandan government release him immediately. During the military court hearing, which was conducted under heavy security, Besigye was informed that he would remain in custody until December 2.
Besigye, who has contested and lost four presidential elections against President Yoweri Museveni, was accompanied by his co-accused, opposition politician Obedi Lutale, who also denied the charges. The prosecution claims they were found with two pistols and ammunition in a hotel in Nairobi and were negotiating for arms with individuals in Switzerland, Greece, and Kenya.
Upon arriving at the Makindye military court after days of being out of contact, Besigye waved to journalists and supporters from his Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party. He objected to being tried in a court martial, asserting that any charges against him should be addressed in a civilian court; however, this request was overruled.
Byanyima emphasized her husband’s civilian status on social media, questioning why he was being held in a military facility. Kizza Besigye previously served as Museveni’s personal physician before becoming a vocal opposition leader, frequently labeling the long-serving president as a “dictator.” He has claimed that past presidential elections were rigged—a charge the government denies—and has faced numerous arrests throughout his political career.
The circumstances surrounding Besigye’s alleged kidnapping have sparked concerns in Kenya, particularly among human rights groups alarmed by recent forced deportations. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNHRC) expressed worry over the situation. Additionally, the Pan-African Opposition Leaders Solidarity Network described the abduction as “deeply disturbing,” asserting that such actions by state security forces are not an acceptable means of cooperation between Uganda and Kenya.
Kampala Mayor Erias Lukwago, a close ally of Besigye, called for an explanation from the Kenyan government regarding the incident. In contrast, Kenyan officials have denied any involvement in Besigye’s alleged abduction. Korir Sing’oei, principal secretary for foreign affairs in Kenya, stated that they were unaware of Besigye’s presence in the country or any need for facilitation.
Although Besigye has been less active politically in recent years and did not contest the 2021 election, he recently announced his intention to return to politics to address issues within his party and help Ugandans before his planned retirement at age 70.
