President Museveni released a statement this afternoon addressing the condition of Dr. Kizza Besigye. In his statement, the President said:
I have noted the concerns raised by some Ugandans regarding the remanding of Dr. Besigye for the very serious offenses he is alleged to have been planning. It is important to understand that for a stable and orderly country, the key question should not simply be about his detention but rather: “Naye Dr. Besigye bamukwatila ki?” Why was Dr. Besigye arrested?
The answer lies in ensuring a fair and quick trial, where facts can be established transparently. This is the proper course of action in any lawful society. Otherwise, casting doubt on due process only serves to promote insecurity, which is dangerous for our nation.
Furthermore, Uganda has a long-standing tradition of reconciliation and forgiveness, dating back to the 1960s. No one in the world can lecture us on these values, as they are deeply ingrained in our national doctrine.
Our national strategy and doctrine are rooted in accountability, ensuring that those who commit grave mistakes especially those who take the lives of Ugandans are held responsible.
Today, we can honor the memory of great Ugandans like Janani Luwum, Benedicto Kiwanuka, Kiingo Chemonges, and Edward Mutesa, among others. We move through a peaceful Uganda, traveling on well-built roads, because of the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters who stood against and defeated Idi Amin and other oppressive forces.
Our mission is not driven by vengeance but by the need to eliminate the dangers posed by those who seek to harm our people. Therefore, in the case of Dr. Besigye, the most appropriate course of action is a swift and fair trial to establish the truth.
President Museveni’s Speaks On who is responsible for delaying trial process
Who is responsible for delaying the trial process? It was the courts themselves that identified gaps in the Military Courts and subsequently ordered the transfer of cases to Civilian Courts. As a result, efforts are now being made on two fronts: transferring the files from the Military to the Civilian Courts, and ensuring that the government and legislators address the identified gaps in the Military Courts.
If one is truly innocent, why not demand a swift trial to prove innocence and expose those allegedly “persecuting” them? Instead of calling for bail and forgiveness, as if serious crimes warrant special privileges, the best course of action is to seek a fair and speedy trial to establish the truth.
Also Read: President Yoweri Museveni speaks on Supreme Court Ruling on Civilians
President Museveni’s Statement On Medical Care in Detention Of Dr Kizza Besigye
Regarding the issue of sickness, President Museveni said it is important to note that there is a government hospital within the prison. Additionally, Dr. Besigye’s personal doctors have been visiting him regularly and have even taken him to private clinics for treatment. If any further medical attention were required, the government would be duly informed and would take the necessary action.
However, in this case, Dr. Besigye was on a hunger strike, which largely contributed to his weakness, as seen in the newspaper photos. Is this not a form of unprincipled blackmail? How can one be accused of serious crimes and, instead of facing trial, resort to a hunger strike to gain sympathy for bail? If one is truly innocent, why not demand a quick trial instead? The military court was prepared for the case, but since the matter has now been transferred, we shall await the proceedings in the civilian court.