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Besigye Declines Prison Food Over Poison Fears

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Besigye Declines Prison Food Over Poison Fears
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Members of Parliament (MPs) on the Human Rights Committee spent over five hours at Luzira Prison investigating the detention conditions of former presidential candidate Dr. Kizza Besigye.

The visit followed complaints to Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa about alleged rights violations and poor prison conditions.

During their meeting, Dr. Besigye expressed fears of poisoning, leading him to reject prison food.

In response, an arrangement was reached between him and prison authorities, allowing three individuals of his choice to deliver his meals daily.

However, MPs declined to reveal the identities of the individuals tasked with this role.

Dr. Besigye also disclosed to the MPs that he is being held in isolation, with stringent restrictions on his movements.

According to his legal counsel, Erias Lukwago, Besigye is only permitted to leave his detention cell for one hour a day after other prisoners are locked away.

Furthermore, access to his cell reportedly requires passing through five security gates.

Despite these conditions, MPs reported that Besigye appeared strong, contrary to reports suggesting his health was deteriorating.

The MPsโ€™ visit was marked by a heated moment when Elias Lukwago, who had accompanied the delegation, was denied entry.

Prison authorities argued that Lukwago was not on the official list of approved visitors. Fox Odoi, the committee chairperson, attempted to intervene, stating that Lukwagoโ€™s presence was critical to their mission.

However, his efforts were unsuccessful, and Lukwago was forced to remain outside the prison premises.

Dr. Besigye was remanded to Luzira Prison by the General Court Martial in Makindye on charges of illegal possession of firearms and allegedly seeking external funding to destabilise national security.

He was arrested last year in Kenya alongside his associate, Obeid Lutale, who faces similar charges.

The MPsโ€™ findings will be compiled into a report to be presented to Parliament next Tuesday.

The investigation, directed by the Deputy Speaker, aims to ensure that Dr. Besigyeโ€™s rights as a prisoner are upheld.

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