Medics Petition Government to Release Besigye on Bail.

Dr Kizza Besigye being wheeled into Nakawa court. Courtesy image.

A group of medical professionals has petitioned the government to release former opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye on bail to allow him to seek specialized medical treatment. The petition, signed by over 1,400 doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, was led by Dr. Ekwaro Obuku, former president of the Uganda Medical Association.

Dr. Besigye, along with Hajj Obeid Lutale, was charged with treason and appeared before the Nakawa Magistrate’s Court on February 21, 2025. Due to his ailing condition, his defense lawyer, Erias Lukwago, made an impassioned plea to the chief magistrate, requesting permission for Besigye to receive treatment outside prison. However, the court did not grant the request.

The medical professionals emphasized Besigye’s membership in the Elderly Forum within the medical fraternity, stressing that his health condition requires urgent attention from specialized doctors. They urged the government to consider his deteriorating health and grant him bail on humanitarian grounds.

As the legal battle continues, supporters and human rights activists have joined the call for Besigye’s release, arguing that access to proper medical care is a fundamental right. The government has yet to respond to the petition.

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