Is Besigye Getting Out Soon? Museveni Expresses Concern Over Besigye’s Arrest And Health In Luzira

President Yoweri Museveni has voiced concern over the continued detention of veteran opposition politician Dr Kizza Besigye, highlighting the deep personal and historical ties that bind the two men—ties forged decades ago during the armed struggle that brought the current government to power.

Museveni’s concerns come amid growing public debate and political tension surrounding Besigye’s arrest and ongoing detention. Dr Besigye, once a trusted ally of the president, served as Museveni’s personal physician during the liberation struggle and later rose through the ranks as a senior officer in the National Resistance Army (NRA). Their shared history in the bush war has long been a reference point in Uganda’s political narrative, making the current standoff between them particularly symbolic.

Besigye was arrested earlier this year in Kenya and subsequently transferred back to Uganda, where he is facing charges linked to national security. Government authorities have maintained that the arrest and subsequent detention were conducted lawfully and in accordance with regional and international legal frameworks. However, Besigye’s supporters and opposition figures have strongly disputed this position, arguing that the charges are politically motivated and intended to silence a long-time critic of the government.

The president’s message was delivered during a visit to Rukungiri District, Besigye’s home area, by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, accompanied by Ministers Jim Muhwezi and Chris Baryomunsi. Addressing residents on Museveni’s behalf, Tayebwa relayed the president’s personal sentiments, saying, “Dr Besigye is my friend. We fought together in the bush. I am concerned about his health and well-being, but the law must take its course.”

According to Tayebwa, Museveni underscored the principle that no individual, regardless of their past contributions or personal relationship with the president, is above the law. He stressed that Besigye’s case would be handled through the established judicial process, just like that of any other Ugandan citizen. Tayebwa further accused Besigye’s legal team of deliberately slowing down the proceedings by filing numerous applications, which he claimed have contributed to repeated delays in the trial.

Dr Besigye has remained one of Museveni’s most formidable political challengers, having contested the presidency multiple times since 2001. Over the years, their relationship has evolved dramatically—from close comrades-in-arms to fierce political rivals—playing a defining role in shaping Uganda’s opposition politics for more than two decades.

As debate over Besigye’s detention continues to intensify, Museveni appealed for restraint and calm among the public. He urged Ugandans to allow the courts to carry out their mandate independently, warning against political pressure or interference in judicial matters. The president’s message appeared aimed at striking a balance between acknowledging a shared past with his former ally and reaffirming his administration’s stance on the rule of law.