Besigye subjected to harsh conditions in prison-Ssemujju
The interim spokesperson of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda has issued a statement to journalists and party members revealing troubling details about the condition of veteran opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye and his aide Hajj Obeid Lutale who have been detained at Luzira Prison since November 2024.
According to Ssemujju, Besigye a prominent leader of the opposition and a fierce critic of the NRM government confided in him that he has been subjected to harsh conditions in prison. He reportedly told Ssemujju that he was recently attacked by bedbugs which has made his stay in Luzira extremely uncomfortable. Besigye has also been experiencing sleep deprivation, spending days without adequate rest due to the insect infestation and the overall prison environment.
The opposition politician described how visits to Besigye are heavily restricted; he is only seen through a glass window and communicate via a call box making personal interaction difficult. Ssemujju expressed concern over the treatment of Besigye emphasizing that his life has been made difficult and that the conditions are inhumane.
In his statement, Ssemujju announced that the People’s Front for Freedom plans to take action to hold the government accountable. He revealed that the party intends to profile all Members of Parliament from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) who were present during the passage of the recent UPDF (Uganda People’s Defence Force) Amendment Bill. The party aims to ensure these MPs are remembered as the individuals responsible for supporting legislation that according to opposition voices, threatens civilian rights by empowering the military to exert greater control over civilian affairs.
Ssemujju emphasized that the PFF views the passing of the UPDF Amendment Bill as a significant step backward for democracy in Uganda. The bill which was passed amidst controversy grants increased powers to the military including the authority to operate more independently within civilian contexts raising concerns about the militarization of civilian governance.
As political tensions continue to escalate in Uganda, the plight of opposition leaders like Kizza Besigye highlights the ongoing struggles faced by critics of the government. The opposition’s efforts to document and oppose legislation perceived as undermining democratic institutions reflect a broader push for political reform amid an increasingly polarized environment.
The situation remains dynamic with supporters calling for Besigye’s immediate release and improved treatment in detention while government authorities maintain that legal procedures are being followed. The coming weeks are expected to be critical in shaping the political landscape in Uganda.
