The Uganda Peoples Congress (UPC) has expressed concern that prolonged detentions Dr. Kizza Besigye and all other political prisoners,
without trial derail the growth of true multi-party politics.
The party also renewed calls for the immediate release of Besigye, warning that continued detentions threaten democratic process ahead of general elections.
In a statement, UPC spokesperson Sharon Arach Oyat said the persistent arrests and detentions of political figures send a negative message to the public and undermine democratic principles.
“The on-and-off locking up of politicians can be seen as a way of intimidating opposition political parties and their leadership. Such actions weaken our democracy, rule of law, and protection of human rights,” she stated.
“We cannot embark on nation-building when our party leaders and members are languishing in jails with cases likely to be trumped up,” Oyat added.
UPC also criticised the government’s alleged disregard for the Supreme Court’s ruling against the trial of civilians in military courts, warning against proposed amendments to the UPDF Act that would contradict judicial decisions.
“The Executive must not contradict the Judiciary. Compliance with court rulings is expected of all arms of government,” Oyat emphasised.
Referencing the recent death of Hon. Muhammad Segirinya, whose health reportedly deteriorated following detention, UPC warned of potentially severe consequences if Besigye and other political prisoners are not released.
“The stakes are much higher now. Listening to people’s cries is an act of statesmanship, not defeat,” Sharon said.
On January 31, the Supreme Court ruled that it was unconstitutional for civilians to be tried in the military courts.
Recently, Dr Besigye’s health has deteriorated, reportedly due to a prolonged hunger strike.
On Sunday, he was taken to a private clinic in Bugolobi for medical tests. He was later taken back to jail.
Besigye was abducted from Nairobi, Kenya in November and smuggled back to Uganda.
He was later produced in the General Court Martila in Makindye, Kampala. Dr Besigye and his aide Mr Obeid Lutale, who was arrested with him in Nairobi, were later charged for illegal possession of firearms.
Besigye and his aide Lutale on Wednesday appeared before the High Court Civil Division in Kampala, seeking their release from incarceration.
The two have been on remand since November last year, following their abduction from Nairobi, Kenya, and subsequent charges of security-related offenses and treachery at the General Court Martial.
However, in a significant ruling last month, Uganda’s Supreme Court halted the trial of civilians in military courts, paving the way for Besigye’s legal team to file a habeas corpus application.
Judge Douglas Singiza has directed prison authorities to return Besigye and Lutale to custody and adjourned the session for housekeeping matters.