NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov. 19 — Ugandan opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye has reportedly been detained in a military jail in Kampala, according to his wife, Winnie Byanyima. Dr. Besigye was last seen Saturday in Nairobi, where he had attended the book launch of Hon. Martha Karua.
In a social media post, Byanyima appealed to Ugandan authorities, stating: “I request the govt of Uganda to release my husband Dr. Kizza Besigye from where he is being held immediately.” She added that his alleged detention in a military facility was unjustified, noting, “He is not a soldier. Why is he being held in a military jail?”
Dr. Besigye, a prominent critic of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, has faced multiple arrests in the past for his opposition activities. Neither the Ugandan nor Kenyan governments have released official statements regarding his disappearance or alleged detention.
His family and legal team are demanding access to him and further clarity about his situation.