Ugandan opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye is reported to be in critical condition at Mulago National Referral Hospital after collapsing during a court hearing in Kampala. The 70-year-old, who is facing treason charges, was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) following the incident on Wednesday.
Winnie Byanyima, Besigye's wife and Executive Director of UNAIDS, stated that he is currently unconscious, unable to communicate, and unresponsive to pain stimuli. She added that prior to collapsing, Besigye expressed that he was being harmed. Despite the presence of his sister, Dr. Olive Kobusingye, court officials denied her access to attend to him.
Videos shared on social media captured the moment Besigye collapsed inside the courtroom. Security personnel and court staff quickly intervened before he was transported by ambulance to the hospital.
Background of the Trial
Besigye has been detained since November 2024 following his arrest in Kenya and subsequent transfer to Uganda, where he and his aide, Obeid Lutale, face treason charges. Both men deny the allegations.
The trial has drawn significant domestic and international attention. Besigye has rejected court-appointed lawyers, insisting on his preferred legal representation. Notably, his lead counsel, Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua, was declared persona non grata by Ugandan authorities, while another defense member, former Kampala Mayor Erias Lukwago, was arrested and charged with misprision of treason.
Before his collapse, Besigye protested against the continuation of the trial, accusing the court of constitutional violations. The presiding judge, however, refused to suspend the proceedings.
Political and Human Rights Concerns
Besigye's detention and trial have been criticised by human rights organisations and political allies, who view the charges as politically motivated efforts to suppress opposition under President Yoweri Museveni’s administration. The Commonwealth and other groups have called for his release.
Health concerns for Besigye have been escalating during his imprisonment. Earlier this year, he was briefly hospitalised after a hunger strike protesting his detention. His wife previously noted a significant decline in his health condition.
Profile
Dr. Kizza Besigye, a medical doctor and former military officer, has been a prominent challenger to President Museveni, running for the presidency four times since 2001. His current legal battles continue to highlight tensions within Uganda’s political landscape.
