US Steps In With Major Demand in Besigye's Abduction

The United States has voiced significant concern over the alleged abduction of opposition leader Kizza Besigye, demanding clarity and adherence to legal procedures in the ongoing matter. Reports indicate that Besigye was allegedly taken from Kenya to Uganda under unclear circumstances last Saturday. His wife claims he is currently being held in a Ugandan military detention facility.

On Thursday, the US Bureau of African Affairs issued a statement urging transparency and full legal protections for Besigye and his co-accused, Obeid Lutale. The two have been accused of illegal possession of firearms and involvement in arms negotiations abroad. According to authorities, the charges stem from allegations of their possession of pistols and ammunition in a Nairobi hotel and attempts to secure arms in cities such as Geneva, Athens, and Nairobi.

Besigye appeared in court at the Makindye General Court Martial on Wednesday under heavy military escort. He denied the charges brought against him and was informed that he would remain in custody until December 2. The opposition leader, who previously served as President Museveni’s personal doctor, has been an outspoken critic of Museveni’s government for decades, contesting against him in four presidential elections.

The Ugandan government has refrained from directly addressing the claims of abduction. However, Information Officer Chris Baryomunsi dismissed allegations of illegal detentions, asserting that Uganda does not conduct arrests without the cooperation of host nations. He assured that proper legal channels were followed if Besigye’s arrest occurred in Kenya.

This incident has drawn international attention, with the US monitoring the situation closely. The demand for transparency underscores broader concerns over political freedoms and the treatment of opposition leaders in Uganda, as the legal battle continues to unfold.