Winnie Byanyima Shares a Picture of Besigye Kneeling Down, Makes Emotional Plea for His Release

Winnie Byanyima, executive director of UNAIDS, has intensified her campaign for the release of her husband, Dr. Kizza Besigye, sharing a powerful image of the Ugandan opposition leader kneeling in prayer at Luzira Prison.

The photo, posted on X on June 22, 2025, accompanied Byanyima’s heartfelt plea for bail, which she insisted is Besigye’s “constitutional right.”

“We demand bail from the courts. We pray for @kizzabesigye1, Haji Obed Lutale, and all political prisoners to get justice and be freed.

They are innocent,” Byanyima wrote, sparking widespread support online.

Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate, has been detained since November 2024 on charges of possessing weapons, which Byanyima and supporters dismiss as politically motivated.

The image, capturing Besigye’s resilience in faith despite harsh prison conditions, moved many, including activist Makana Kennedy Ndyamuhaki, who urged prayers for Besigye’s strength.

Byanyima has repeatedly criticized the government for denying bail despite Uganda’s constitutional provision for mandatory release after 180 days without trial, calling the detention “persecution”.

Besigye’s health has raised alarms, with Byanyima previously noting his kidney damage from a hunger strike.

Her plea echoes calls from human rights groups for the release of political prisoners, amid accusations that President Museveni’s regime targets dissenters.

The High Court has yet to schedule a bail hearing, leaving supporters hopeful yet anxious