President Yoweri Museveni has called for a swift trial of opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye. In a statement issued on Tuesday, Museveni addressed concerns raised by Ugandans over Besigye’s remand, stressing that those questioning his detention should instead ask why he was arrested.
“The answer to that is a quick trial so that facts come out. Otherwise, you are promoting insecurity, which is very dangerous for the country,” Museveni said.
He further dismissed arguments advocating for forgiveness and reconciliation, asserting that Uganda’s history and doctrine have always emphasized accountability.
“We are not for vengeance, but the danger of the killers must be removed,” he said, referencing historical figures such as Janani Luwum, Benedicto Kiwanuka, Kiingo Chemonges, and Edward Mutesa, whose memories live on in a peaceful Uganda today.
Museveni attributed the delay in Besigye’s trial to the judiciary, stating that courts had identified gaps in the military judicial system and subsequently transferred cases to civilian courts.
“Who slowed down the trial process? It is the Courts that pointed out some gaps in the Military Courts and they ordered the transfer of the cases to Civilian Courts,” he explained.
The president challenged Besigye’s reluctance to push for a trial, arguing that an innocent person should seek to clear their name instead of demanding bail.
“If you are innocent, why do you not demand for a quick trial so that you can prove your innocence and expose those who are ‘persecuting’ you instead of demanding bail, forgiveness, as if serious crime is also entitled to holidays?” Museveni questioned.
Regarding concerns over Besigye’s health, the president dismissed claims that the government had neglected his medical needs, stating that prison facilities, personal doctors, and private clinics had all been made available to him.
However, Museveni blamed Besigye’s hunger strike for his deteriorating condition, calling it an act of “unprincipled blackmail.”
“How can you be accused of serious crimes and, then, your response is a hunger strike to generate sympathy for getting bail, etc.?” he asked.
The president reaffirmed that the military court had been ready to proceed with the case and urged Ugandans to await the civilian court’s process.
