Kizza Besigye charged in Court
Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye charged in Uganda martial court on Wednesday, drawing international attention and raising questions about Kenya’s involvement in his arrest. Besigye, a prominent political figure, faces four charges, including possession of illegal firearms in foreign countries and allegedly seeking military support to destabilize Uganda’s forces.
Kizza Besigye Charged Over Alleged Military Activities
The military court accuses Besigye of undermining Uganda’s armed forces. His lawyer, Erias Lukwago, directly challenges the court’s jurisdiction and strongly criticizes Kenya’s involvement in the matter. 
Lukwago argues, “For his liberty to be curtailed in a sovereign state like Kenya and no actions being taken by the Kenyan government… that is a very serious matter.” He further accuses Uganda of violating Kenya’s territorial integrity and questions Kenya’s apparent role in the situation.
Meanwhile, these accusations arise just days after Besigye traveled to Nairobi for a book launch but suddenly went missing. His wife, the head of UNAIDS, claims Uganda kidnapped him. Four days later, authorities brought him before the Kampala military court alongside his ally, Hajj Lutale Kamulegeya. Both firmly deny the charges, escalating tensions in an already contentious case.
Kenya’s Role Questioned in the Case
Besigye’s supporters and human rights advocates have voiced concerns about his treatment. “If the person is in some hands somewhere they are not under a known recognized authority and they show up here, it’s very concerning, it’s very distressing,” said one supporter outside the court.
The authorities have sent the former leader of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party to Luzira prison, where he will remain until December 2. Although Besigye initially appeared in court without legal representation, he firmly refused government-appointed lawyers, arguing that, as a civilian, only a civilian court should handle his case.
Meanwhile, Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary, Korir Singoei, directly denied any involvement in the alleged incident. Speaking to local media, Singoei clarified that Kenya played no role in Besigye’s arrest.
This unfolding situation intensifies regional tensions and sparks critical debates about cross-border cooperation, sovereignty, and the handling of political dissent.
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