Kizza Besigye transferred from prison to hospital amid health concerns

Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye has been transferred from Luzira Prison to the Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC) hospital in Kampala following a deterioration in his health. His wife, Winnie Byanyima, reported that Besigye was moved to the hospital after dark on Friday and remains in a severely weakened state. She stated that he is struggling to walk, speak, write, or hold objects steadily.

Besigye, 70, has faced health issues since collapsing during a High Court appearance on July 29 while attending proceedings for a treason case. Following that incident, he was treated at Mulago National Referral Hospital before being returned to Luzira Prison on August 7. His family has expressed concerns regarding chronic complications involving his lungs and spine, which they suggest have been exacerbated by prison conditions.

Byanyima has renewed her appeal to Ugandan authorities to allow Besigye to travel to Geneva, Switzerland, for specialized medical treatment. She emphasized that Besigye has a long history of legal challenges, having been arrested more than 50 times, and has never fled from justice. The treason trial continues in his absence.