Uganda Prison Finally Sets the Record Straight on Dr. Besigye Eating Food Prepared by His Allies

The Uganda Prison Service has dismissed concerns about the safety of food provided to opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye while in custody.

Speaking on the matter, Prison Service spokesperson Frank Baine clarified that Dr. Besigye has complete control over the food he consumes, as it is delivered and prepared by individuals he personally trusts.

“There should be no doubt about the food Dr. Besigye eats. The people he trusts are the ones supposed to deliver his food. Even in terms of preparation, he sees his food being prepared and accesses it himself,” Baine stated.

This clarification follows public speculation over the treatment of the former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) leader during his time in detention.

Supporters and human rights activists had raised concerns, fearing that the state might interfere with his meals.

However, the Uganda Prison Service maintains that the opposition figure is given special consideration to ensure he is comfortable with what he eats.

According to Ugandan prison regulations, inmates generally receive food prepared within the prison system.

However, for high-profile detainees or those with special dietary needs, exceptions are made to allow food from outside sources, provided it meets safety standards.

In Dr. Besigye’s case, this arrangement appears to be in place to accommodate his preferences and security concerns.

Allowing him to have his food prepared by trusted individuals ensures transparency and eliminates any fears of contamination or mistreatment.

The clarification by the Uganda Prison Service comes amid continued scrutiny of the government’s treatment of opposition figures.

Dr. Besigye, a vocal critic of President Yoweri Museveni’s administration, has been arrested multiple times over the years for his political activism. His latest detention has reignited debates about political freedoms and the conditions of opposition leaders in custody.

Supporters of Dr. Besigye have welcomed the statement by the Uganda Prison Service but remain cautious. Many argue that while ensuring his food safety is important, the bigger issue is his repeated arrests, which they view as politically motivated.

On the other hand, government officials insist that Dr. Besigye is treated in accordance with the law and that his food arrangement is just one example of the prison service’s commitment to fairness.

LINK: https://x.com/nbstv/status/1889904910059315586

Even as the debate continues, the Uganda Prison Service’s clarification aims to reassure the public that Dr. Besigye’s welfare in detention remains a priority.

However, for his supporters, the focus remains on securing his release and addressing what they see as the suppression of political dissent in Uganda.