Uganda’s opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye has officially ended his hunger strike at Luzira Maximum Security Prison.
Besigye, who had refused food in protest of his prolonged detention without formal charges made the decision after President Museveni’s government and his son Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba finally presented charges against him in a civilian court.
Despite his weakened condition, he has begun taking fluids and fruits as he gradually transitions back to solid food.
Besigye a long-time political rival of Museveni was arrested under circumstances his supporters have condemned as politically motivated.
His hunger strike had become a symbol of resistance drawing national and international attention to what many see as the increasing authoritarianism of the Ugandan government.
The move to charge him in a civilian court rather than a military tribunal is being viewed as a direct result of public pressure and sustained advocacy from human rights groups, opposition figures and citizens.
Winnie Byanyima, his wife and the Executive Director of UNAIDS confirmed the news in a tweet thanking supporters for standing with Besigye.
She emphasized that the pressure from the public forced the government to take action and acknowledge his legal rights.
“He is innocent and confident he will be found so,” she stated, reaffirming his commitment to the struggle for justice.
Besigye’s suffering reignites a familiar battle between the opposition and Museveni’s government which has ruled Uganda since 1986.
His detention without charge and subsequent hunger strike exposed deep flaws in the country’s justice system where political opponents often face extended detention under dubious legal justifications.
The decision to move his case to a civilian court raises questions about the government’s true intentions.
With a legal battle ahead, Besigye’s supporters remain on high alert vowing to continue challenging what they see as an oppressive regime. The courtroom will now serve as the next battleground in his fight for justice.
